Ikebana | 生け花 | living flowers
At Plyroom we observe the Japanese sensibilities of simplicity, tranquillity, subtlety, and beauty in imperfection.
On the Journal we’ve coveted Japanese-inspired principals including Japandi, the design harmony between Japanese sensibility and Scandinavian utilitarianism; shinrin-yoku, nature therapy; Japanese woodworking; and the art of sushi.
Perpetuating our fondness for the Japanese aesthetic, this May we are holding a workshop with Shoso Shimbo, celebrated Ikebana teacher and contemporary floral sculptor, to share the intricate Japanese craft of flower arrangement.
This workshop will be the first of a series of exclusive Plyroom events in 2018.
What is Ikebana?
The craft of Ikebana or Kadō (華道, way of flowers) is considered one of the three Japanese classic arts of refinement. Ikebana observes shape, line, and form. A delicate unification of nature and humanity.
According to Shoso Shimbo, ‘In the 16th century Iekenobo Senno defined it as the symbolic representation of nature. Rather than focussing on the outward beauty of each flower, the Ikebana artist is concerned with the essence of the flower.
Ikebana artists try to express the idea of nature in their works. Even a small work can represent a microcosm of the universe. In that sense, Ikebana is a symbolic art rather than just a nicely arranged bunch of flowers.’
A central tenet of Shoso Shimbo’s own art is the idea of harmony within nature’s organic order, and the relationship between man and nature.
Contemporary Ikebana
At Plyroom we celebrate the simple balance between eastern and western sensibilities, the traditionional and the modern. With flowers on the mind, we have collated our favourite contemporary interpretations of Ikebana.
Image credit clockwise from top left: Creative Direction Studio Monde photographed by Meghan K. Sadler; Rue Anafel; Bessou New York via Remodelista; Shoso Shimbo; Studio Monde photographed by Meghan K. Sadler; Nel Van Vooren. Banner image credit: Studio Monde photographed by Meghan K. Sadler.
Join us at the
Plyroom Ikebana Workshop in Melbourne
Saturday 12 May 2018
Plyroom Studio,161a Heidelberg Road Northcote 3051