The elegance and aesthetic harmony of ikebana—Japanese flower arranging—have inspired poets and artists for more than 500 years. Today, ikebana is evolving into a three-dimensional art form that adorns the interiors of Western homes and public spaces.
In this course for beginning and continuing students, participants learn some of the basic styles and variations of ikebana as taught by Japan’s Sogetsu School of Ikebana. Using spring flowers, vines, and glass containers, they create beautiful and striking basic and free-style arrangements, including centerpieces.
Flowers, greens, vines, and other basic materials are included in tuition. Students should bring a shallow container with sides about 2 to 3 inches high and approximately 9 inches in diameter (a Pyrex pie plate, quiche dish, or plastic design tray from a florist works well) to the first class. They should also bring a frog (a needled flower holder) about 2 to 3 inches in diameter, or may purchase it from the instructor at the first class.
Instructor Jane Redmon has studied ikebana for over 20 years. She is certified as a teacher, first-degree, by the Sogetsu School of Ikebana.
6 sessions, 2 hours each, no class May 1.
To learn more about Japan, listen to clips from Smithsonian Folkways>>
