Students of Dallas Japanese school learned Ikebana history and tried Ikebana flower arrangement for Mother’s Day. Their first language is English and they are learning Japanese as a heritage language. Most /All of their life is in the States. They know flower arrangements using bunch of colorful flowers but they don’t see Ikebana which originally decorated in Tokonoma, decorative alcove in tatami guest room and appreciate negative space. ( Japanese blog http://nadeshikointheus.seesaa.net/article/437777072.html )
I would like them to know that Ikebana, is not just decorating rooms but there are more meaning and history behind Ikebana has been learned, developed and adapted to the changes of life style, architecture and society over hundreds of years.
My Ikebana teacher learned form her Ikebana teacher, and her teacher learned form her teacher… then it will be one person lived over 550 years, offered flowers at Zen temple caled Chotoj. I made a powerpoint for children from elementary to high school.
After explaining history and changes of Ikebana, I showed how to see flowers and some tips to make the arrangement beautiful.I was so happy to hear their voices of surprise!
Ikebana create nature/ universe in a small vase. Th students who are used to see bunch of flowers seemed to be surprised to discover how a single twig or branch itself I heard their voices again. Wow! They were great audience.
I prepared two roses for this arrangement. Normally odd number is preferable to create unbalanced balance but this time the roses were the students and their mother. They can easily attach their feeling to the arrangement.
The experienced to appreciate negative space and natural beauty and express themselves.
I am so happy to appreciate Ikebana with students living in the States away from Japan. Even in Japan mot so many students have an opportunity to learn history of Ikebana and try by themselves.
Thank you for giving me an opportunity!!!My dream came true to share in the joy of Ikebana and my skills.