Flower Arranging

Ikebana (literally “living flowers”) is the unique Japanese art form of arranging flowers and other natural materials for display. Developed in the 13th century by Buddhist priests, ikebana gradually became a secular art with specific schools, or ryu, each with its own distinctive style. Within these ryu, secret techniques were taught to initiates, and ranks were conferred.

Although attractive arrangements are created in ikebana, this is not actually the purpose of the art. Rather, the ikebana enthusiast uses flowers to express a deep awareness of life, and to bring him/herself into a closer identification with nature. Ikebana is sometimes referred to as kado, the Way of Flowers, signifying its role as a philosophical path through life.