Marybel Balendonck

Originally from Texas, Marybel moved to California in the 60’s. Fascinated with Oriental art she became interested in Bonsai, first self-taught by acquiring books on the subject. She started her formal training in 1965 and is recognized as one of today’s
more accomplished Bonsai artists. Marybel was one of
the original board members of Kofu Bonsai when it was
created, the board consisting of her, Harry Hirao and
Larry Ragle. She was President of Santa Anita
Bonsai Society and has held positions on the
boards of California Bonsai Society, Golden
State Bonsai federation, and Nampu Kai Bonsai.
She is currently on the board of directors for the
National Bonsai and Penjing Museum in Washington
D.C. Marybel is still very active in the Bonsai community
and displays her art on a regular basis at venues such
as the Huntington Library and Gardens, L.A. County
Arboretum, Japanese American Cultural center
L.A. and the Bowers Museum in Orange County.