About this episode

Lee Bonsai interviews Avram Dalton about his approach to designing Japanese gardens and the principles of Japanese craftsmanship.

This episode is a little different from our usual bonsai conversations—but I think many of the ideas we explore will resonate far beyond bonsai. I sat down with Avram Dalton, an American garden craftsman who studied the Japanese language and spent years training in Japan. Today, he designs and builds authentic Japanese gardens throughout the United States. Based in the San Diego area, Avram has devoted his career to understanding the principles, aesthetics, and philosophy behind the Japanese approach to craftsmanship. Our conversation goes far beyond trees and stone. We discuss Avram’s approach to designing Japanese gardens, how the principles of Japanese landscape design translate from Japan to projects throughout the United States, and what distinguishes truly exceptional Japanese gardens. Along the way, we explore concepts like shokunin and several other uniquely Japanese ideas surrounding craftsmanship, beauty, discipline, and the lifelong pursuit of excellence. Whether your passion is bonsai, woodworking, gardening, martial arts, or any other craft, I think you’ll find something meaningful in this conversation. I walked away with a deeper appreciation for the Japanese way of…

People in this episode

Host: Lee Bonsai

Guest: Avram Dalton

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: daltonlandscape.com

Places: San Diego, United States, Japan

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Black Pondo Podcast podcast page.