I am now taking Ikebana lessons! Ikebana is a Japanese flower arrangement that is based on creating harmony through the use of the vase, stems, leaves, and flowers. From what I understand, which is very little considering my teacher only speaks Japanese, is that the arranging is based on thirds and triangles; representing heaven, earth, and humankind. Since I am a beginner, my teacher first cuts the flower stems to the correct length, arranges them for me, then shows me the triangles within the arrangement. I then take the arrangement apart and try to imitate it. It may sound easy, but it's actually a bit challenging! It is a lot of fun, though, and I really like learning this aspect of the culture. We usually end our lessons with dessert and green tea.
A few weeks ago we all went to an Ikebana exhibit. My teacher, Misayo, is considered one of the head masters of Ikebana in Japan and is actually very well known for her work. She is in the picture below with one of her flower arrangements featured at the exhibit.
4 comments:
How beautiful and tranquil! I would love to learn how to arrange flowers.You'll have to teach us when you get home. You can teach a class!
Love to you! Momma
Hi! You are becoming quite the "worldly" woman, Melissa with all your fancy schmancy, new cultural activities!
The next thing we know, you are going to have black hair, be speaking Japanese and own a Flower Arranging shop! Beautiful,I love it!
Love you and miss you bunches!
Hi Frankie and Melissa.
This site is awesome. We have so much fun reading about your adventures. We can tell you guys are really enjoying yourselves.
By the way, how is "samle" doing? Are you guys sure you're in Japan??? Is that you Frank in the background?
Love Chris and Marie
I can't wait for the lesson on this, you know I love flowers!!!!
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