Announcement of Passing: Al Nelson
Al Nelson passed away on April 29. 2026. He was 94.
Al was a pillar of the bonsai community for many years, admired not only for his skill but for the generosity and steadiness he brought to art. He was especially well known for his coastal live oak bonsai, a species he elevated through patience, insight, and an unmistakable personal touch.
One of his trees resides at the Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt. Al took particular pride in this oak because he developed it entirely without wiring—a testament to his deep understanding of the tree’s natural movement and his belief in guiding, rather than forcing, its character. When the time came to donate the tree, he drove all the way from Southern California to Oakland to ensure it arrived safely, a gesture that reflected both his dedication and his care.
Photo courtesy of Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt
