On July 3, students participated in an Ikebana workshop held on campus, where they explored the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement. The program was held as part of the iEXPerience Program, which is a series of programs organized by iCLA to provide opportunities to learn about and connect with local culture and society.
Ikebana, also known as Kado (“the way of flowers”), is a traditional Japanese art form with roots in Buddhism. By intentionally arranging flowers, leaves, and branches, practitioners create aesthetic compositions that showcase balance and harmony. There are more than 50 schools of Ikebana, each with its own philosophy and style.
The workshop was led by certified Sogetsu Ikebana instructor and iCLA Administrative Office staff member, Ekaterina. The session began with an overview on the origins of Ikebana and the distinct style of Sogetsu Ikebana, which separates itself from other schools of Ikebana through its emphasis on creative expression over strict adherence to traditional forms. Sogetsu is one of the most popular schools of Ikebana.
Students were introduced to the fundamentals of Ikebana, including the tools, the types of plants used, and the various types of vessels used for different styles of arrangements. They also gained an understanding of the main structural elements of an arrangement: shin and soe, the tallest stems that are usually branches; and hikae, the shortest but the most prominent of the three, usually a flower that serves as a central part of the composition. In addition, they learned how to cut the flower stems and branches for placement on the kenzan, the spiked holder used to secure materials in place.
The workshop used seasonal plants, which were sunflowers, spray carnations, carnations, and bulrush. Appreciation for the season and the changing of the seasons is an integral aspect of Ikebana.
Students observed as Ekaterina demonstrated the arrangement. After, they tried their hand at creating their own unique arrangements. While following the foundational principles of the Sogetsu style of the floral arrangement, the students also incorporated their creative vision into their designs. Although everyone worked with the same materials, each completed arrangement reflected the individuality and artistic vision of its creator.
“The workshop included a presentation on Sogetsu ikebana basics and aesthetics, and I am happy with how quickly the students learned the sense of proportions typical for this school: all of the works look well-balanced and fit the vases as well as the exhibition space. At the same time each of the works looks unique even though the participants started with the same set of plant materials. The students approached the arrangement with creativity and thought of techniques to express themselves and showcase the beauty of flowers, such as creating curved lines or a mass of flowers. Adjusting the long bulrush leaves into sharp angles or soft heart-shapes, as well as a combination of both is particularly impressive for the beginners. I hope everyone had fun and learned a new side of Japanese culture!” – Ekaterina
The finished works were displayed later that day as part of the Spring Gala art exhibition, showcasing the students’ creativity and their appreciation of this traditional Japanese art form.
“I loved the fact that there was a brief explanation at the beginning. It helped me learn something new. I learned a little bit about the history, the aesthetics and the measurements needed to create ikebana. It made me appreciate flowers even more.” – Workshop Participant
“My favorite part of the program was when we were trying to organize which parts of the flowers and plants were going in each places. It was challenging but it was a soothing experience. I learned that quiet peaceful hobbies like ikebana can help us reset our mind because this world is getting too fast in this digital times. Helps me calm down when nature in hobbies are involved.” – Workshop Participant
