Are you a plant lover, an artist, or simply an observer? No matter who you are, the Japanese Ikebana art form is sure to fascinate you! It’s a wonderful way to blend nature with your personal narrative and create a unique piece of artwork!
What is Ikebana?
Ikebana is the Japanese art of arranging plants into new forms that reflect their environment. Unlike Western flower arrangements, Ikebana emphasizes the representation of time, the arranger’s emotions, and movement, focusing on balance and harmony between empty spaces and foliage. Even flower buds hold significance as symbols of “energy of life.”
A Brief History
Ikebana originated over 500 years ago in Japan as the art of arranging flowers in vases as Buddhist offerings. Many techniques were developed during that time, but Senkei Ikenobo and his family’s techniques and arrangements became nationally recognized and accepted as the standard. The original Japanese school of Ikebana is still active today, with the 45th generation of the Ikenobo family as headmaster. The school and its teachings have spread so widely that there are now several classes offered globally. Foreigners are only allowed to study at the school in Japan after previous study in their home country and recieved four Ikenobo diplomas. You read that correctly! Ikebana is such a serious practice that is has diplomas and rankings (similar to karate). Another fun fact – Only your Ikebana teacher can approve for you to have students of your own!
Below are Ikebana classes from the New York chapters of the original Ikenobo school, as well as other classes taught by its students-turned-teachers.
Classes offered in NY
NY Chapters of Ikebana School: New York Tachibana – https://www.facebook.com/newyorktachibana
Ikenobo Ikebana Society NY Chapter: https://www.ikenobonyc.org/classes/
Ikebana Classes by Paula Tam: https://ikebananyc.org/about-2/
Paula Tam has dedicated 20 years to Ikebana, holding leadership roles in the New York and California chapters. Her work has been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and she holds the prestigious “Sokatoku” rank, the highest distinction in Ikebana floral artistry.
Classes are (2) hours for $80 (covers flowers, vases, and all necessary tools) – offered Fri, Sat (Manhattan) and Thurs (Queens)
