Tuesday Ikebana is a mix of experimenting and playing for me. It is also my way of meditating especially in times when I need to clear my mind. Since I started learning the Japanese flower art back in 2012, my Tuesdays are mostly for that. In the morning I go to Seishincho Community Center here in Edogawa for our regular lesson. Through my teacher and with the books as my.. Read More
New arrangements do not always mean new materials to work with. This is one of the important things I learned when I started learning Ikebana. Some people think that Ikebana is an expensive hobby because you always need to have fresh flowers and leaves. But in reality, the Japanese flower art also teaches us to create new arrangements out of used or old materials. A few weeks ago, I got.. Read More
Peony flowers has long been a favorite in Asian arts like paintings, poems, and even tattoos. It represents honor, wealth, romance, and beauty in all forms. There are special exhibitions for peony here in Japan between mid-April to mid-May. During this time, locals and foreign visitors can enjoy its beauty and subtle fragrance. This year, I was fortunate to see one of these exhibitions at Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura… Read More
Carnation is one of the popular flowers often preferred for bouquets or centrepieces. It is also a favorite flower to give as gift on Mother’s Day and Teacher’s Day. Originally, its natural color is bright pinkish-purple. But because of modern technology, this flower is now available is array of colors whole year round. Each color of the carnation has a symbol or meaning similar to other flowers. However in general this flower expresses.. Read More
Anthurium is a tropical flower famous for its heart and waxy shape. It has a long vase life which is ideal for an arrangement or display. Often times, we see them arranged vertically so that the hearts are visible. But this also gives the flowers a two-dimensional image because of its flat structure. Here in Japan, anthurium flowers are a bit expensive and rare. Most of the time, they come in pots.. Read More