Ikebana – The Art of Flower Arrangement

Ikebana (生け花) is an art form of flower or plant arrangement that began in the Heian period in which flowers and plants are particularly set in a vase for showing appreciation. It is said the arts like Ikebana were developed as Japanese people had been close to nature. In Ikebana, not only flowers but also grass, trees, and all different kinds of plants can be used unlike flower arrangements. Practically, people arrange flowers to look more beautiful and tidier overall with other materials. People in Japan enjoy its seasonal events with decorated flowers Therefore, Ikebana, the unique culture, originated as Japan has distinctive four seasons. Ikebana has been popular among many generations as a hobby. Actually, there are about more than 30000 styles in Ikebana. Also, women have learnt Ikebana as a part of bridal training. Even some schools take Ikebana as classes to train student’s minds. 

People sometimes run across Ikebana exhibitions at exhibition spaces at department stores, train stations and post offices. In Ikebana world, flowers and plants represent human life and express its beauty and preciousness. They also represent surroundings of humans, such as heaven and earth, so, practitioners need to arrange them in a good balance. In fact, people think flowers, which bloom strongly even on windy or raining days, have souls like human beings do. There is a traditional way of observing other’s Ikebana. Firstly, you will bow once towards the flower with Seiza (正座), sitting on your heels. Then, you will overview the structure first, and enjoy watching in detail like arrangement of the flowers, harmony with flower base and garden tub. Finally, you will bow to the person who created the work to show appreciation.

Here are some reading suggestion for further interest in Ikebana:

• http://www.ikebanahq.org/whatis.php
• http://web-japan.org/kidsweb/virtual/ikebana/ikebana01.html
• http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2098.html