The Art of Ikebana Exhibition was held at the Lady Norwood Begonia House in the Botanical Gardens. It was part of the Wellington Spring Festival. Our Sogetsu Ikebana teachers and some of their students created beautiful arrangements using fresh spring flowers for the public to see. Many people enjoyed the intricate Japanese flower arrangements and were treated to demonstrations by Sogetsu Teachers.
While hosting at the exhibition, Setsuko had a lovely conversation with a young woman.
The woman said, "I have never seen Ikebana before. I can feel pleasant vibes and something different from each arrangement. I really enjoyed coming."
Setsuko replied, “That’s good because Ikebana is therapeutic and spiritual. You see the beautiful materials and let them speak to you.”
This is an anecdote from one of our members, Sudam. She has a kindergarten teacher friend who shows her pupils how to do Ikebana. The pupils are calm, quiet and watch her intently as she's working with the flowers and greenery. Her principal wants her to continue sharing Ikebana sessions as it helps the children to concentrate and stay focused - even the boys!
