About the art of Ikebana
Japanese flower arrangement art ikebana has developed from 500th century Buddhist temple arrangements, first into an art practiced by the imperial court and nobility, and later into a broad art form encompassing different styles. The long tradition of Ikebana essentially includes something that is constantly developing and changing.
The Sogetsu school was founded in 1927, when Sofu Teshigahara set out to develop the traditional expression of ikebana with the idea of ikebana that could be done anywhere, anytime, and from any material. Sogetsu means 'grass and moon' in Finnish. Today, Sogetsu is one of the most international Japanese ikebana schools.
About practicing Ikebana
Studies at an adult education institute begin with basic settings, which are called cockatoo. The studies focus on building a three-dimensional layout and various materials and techniques. If they wish, the course participants can also complete Sogetsu school qualifications. Students who have successfully completed Kakei studies have the opportunity to redeem a Tokyo Yonkyu ja sankyu -diplomas.
After basic studies, studies focus on creative ikebana, where students learn how to create an independent ikebana work through a variety of exercises and themes. These postgraduate studies offer the opportunity to obtain nikyu ja Ikkyu -diplomas. After postgraduate studies, the student can move on to teacher training and complete the studies leading to the qualification of an ikebana teacher at the Sogetsu School.
Photos: Laura Chouette and Nathan Oakley, Unsplash