Interview with Anita Inásel, her path in the bonsai world

To celebrate International Women’s Day, at Mistral Bonsai we would like to pay tribute to women who, with their dedication and passion, have excelled in the bonsai world. Through their work, learning and inspiration, they have changed and enriched this millenary art, demonstrating that bonsai is a space for everyone, whatever their gender. In this interview we talk with Anita Inásel, a talented Hungarian professional, whose passion and dedication to bonsai have left a significant mark, inspiring many to enter this art and discover its deepest essence.

1. How many years have you been in the bonsai world?

In August, it will be five years since I started growing bonsai.

2. What made you start in this art?

For my 40th birthday I wanted a bonsai and my son gave it to me. For me this world was completely unknown, but as I really wanted to keep this little tree alive, I started to research how to take care of the little Carmona.

After each article I read, I became more and more interested in all the other species. I have long been fond of maples, pines, junipers, tropical ficus, and being able to grow them in a pot, the world opened up to me.

3. Bonsai is a world with a majority of men, what challenges have you faced as a woman in this field?

Fortunately, I have not encountered negative attitudes or impossible tasks to solve, which may be because I used to ride big bikes frequently, which is also a more popular hobby among men. So I was often in environments where I had to fit in as the only woman among men, so I understand men’s language.

Of course, I also had a plant that died, but who hasn’t had that experience? I joined a Hungarian bonsai group on Facebook, where there are very kind and helpful members. They answered all my questions and I carefully read and studied their advice. After a while, I knew that I had to turn to a teacher to develop myself in the right direction. In Hungary, I regularly study with three bonsai masters: József Burschl, Sándor Papp and one of my teachers is a wonderful woman, Ilona Illyés.

I sometimes attend sessions with masters in nearby countries to learn more wood shaping techniques, so you can learn a lot from that. Moving large trees is quite difficult, but with a bit of ingenuity and sometimes a bit of added man power, it can be solved easily. I can ask anyone for advice at any time, I listen to them and use their advice. Also, I don’t like working with chemicals, but I can solve it easily.

4. Do you have any reference in the bonsai world that has inspired or influenced you in your work?

All my Hungarian teachers are very inspiring. Their knowledge, their collections and their meticulous work are fantastic. Of course, I also follow the work of the great international masters. When I was preparing for the New Talents competition, I discovered the amazing works of Koji Hiramatsu on Instagram and I also really enjoy watching the tireless videos of Bonsai Releaf.

5. How do you think the role of women in bonsai has changed in the last few years?

Fortunately, there are more and more women and young girls interested in this wonderful art, and there are women whose work is outstanding. Men are very open, they don’t judge, they know we are on the same path as them. I am enjoying the journey and look forward to the results.

6. What advice would you give to women who are starting in the world of bonsai?

Start with courage. You need a bonsai, some good tools, dare to ask, dare to leave home, find a teacher to teach and help you finding your way. We can break away a little bit after our daily work, motherhood and daily obligations thanks to our little trees. And we can spend quality time with ourselves. A little time with plants, and you see the world differently. And the feeling of success will fill you when you see that something works out well, but if it doesn’t, you also learn so that you don’t repeat the mistake next time.

7. What projects or goals do you have for the future?

I am really looking forward to getting my bonsai ready for exhibiting. But it still requires a lot of learning, time and a lot more patience. Besides, I want to learn more about Yamadori.
For me, it is a big and mysterious thing to find my dream tree in nature.

If you have been interested in the story of Anita Inásel and her impact on the bonsai world, you may also be interested in learning about other influential women:

Interview with Lorena Vilas, passion and dedication in bonsai world

Interview with Silvia Ibañez Nubla, deputy director of Mistral Bonsai

Interview with Hyakuman Yuuki, Manga author and bonsai enthusiast