Learn the art of Ikebana - flower arrangement

Ikebana, the exquisite Japanese art of flower arrangement, has captivated people for centuries, not only in Japan but also here in Hong Kong.

Discover the Japanese art of flower arranging

Ikebana, which means "giving life to flowers", is an ancient art developed by Buddhist priests in Japan not long after Buddhism was introduced from China in the 6th Century. It quickly began influencing Japanese arts and culture. Today, this type of flower arrangement is honoured as one of the traditional arts in Japan.

Contrasts with Western flower traditions

Ikebana is a holistic approach to flower arranging. It is more than simply putting flowers in a container. Where the emphasis in Western flower arranging is mainly on quantity, colour and the way the flowers blossom, the Japanese art focuses on creating harmonious linear constructions, comprising vase, stems, leaves, branches and flowers. All elements are treated equally.

Recreating the beauty of nature in your home

Ikebana attempts to recreate the aesthetics of outdoor landscapes - rivers, lakes, gardens or ponds - and to bring this beauty into your home. In principle, Ikebana aims not at bringing a component of nature into the house, but rather at suggesting the whole of nature by creating a link between the indoors and the outdoors. For example, a vase made of bamboo is regarded as a grove and a single flower can be regarded as a garden.

Respect specific rules

Fundamental to Ikebana are a system of three lines, created through tall, medium, and short stems originally symbolising heaven, man and earth. The proper placement of these stems in an arrangement creates a three-dimensional, triangular framework. Additional stems provide a focal point, depth and filler. The front of the arrangement represents the south, and is made fuller than the back since this is where the sun would shine.

Consider seasonality

According to Ikebana principles, flowers and plants are used as they are found in nature. If, for example, a branch was found with dead leaves on it, it would be inappropriate to remove the leaves for the sake of aesthetics. You can use light-coloured or bleached vases with pastel or light-hued floral materials in the summer months. In winter, use dark-toned vases and include wild berries and vines.

A spiritual experience

Ikebana is not just about putting flowers in a vase. It is a spiritual endeavour, when the practitioner feels he is communicating with the flowers. Once flowers are detached from their own roots, nature's perfect balance is destroyed. It's up to the practitioner to make it beautiful.

Understand the basics

It is important to know how to handle cut flowers so that they will thrive. When you receive a bouquet of flowers, trim the ends diagonally before placing them in the vase. This will help the flowers to absorb the water up through the stem better. Make sure you use a sharp knife or scissors. If you are using an opaque vase, remember to check the water frequently. Cloudy water is a sign of bacteria infestation.