Picking a fav is almost impossible... they wouldn't be recognized artists if they weren't contributing something important to the collective art. Every person on the list is worthy of honor, and many who did not make the list.. but that being said, aside from my obvious devotion to Daniel, I have to add that...
I adore Kathy Shaner... I'd love to study with her for a period of time. She would temper the mavrick learning I've received from Daniel.
I'm also very fond of Walter's work, because he has a refined sense of what I love in the rugged wildness of Daniel's work... both of their perspectives on the naturalistic bonsai front are marvelous. Walter just needs to bite his tounge when he wants to tell sexist jokes at conventions.
I love the work with olives that Toni Payeras has done... simply spectacular...
Naka sensei of course... because he knew how to make people love the art...
And Kimura for his shear artistry with deadwood.
Thanks for posting the poll!
Kindest regards,
Victrinia