Ikebana, Flower Arrangement
- Jump To
- How to Join
- What to Know
- Costs
Ikebana means ‘make flowers come alive,’ ‘make flowers active,’ or ‘make flowers fresh.’ In order to be arranged, flowers are cut from the roots, which means their life is biologically terminated. Yet, in ikebana, as the name indicates, the arranger is expected to give a new life to already cut flowers.
In ikebana, each flower must be carefully studied to bring out its intrinsic beauty to the fullest. When displayed to their full advantage, flowers enhance each other, and take on a new life. Participants are expected to apply the principle of ikebana not only to create beautiful floral pieces, but also to develop aesthetic sensitivities and enrich their lives.
The Illinois Prairie Ikenobo Ikebana Chapter conducts workshops on the first Saturday of each month with exceptions for holidays, visiting professors, or other big events. Additionally, beginners classes are held periodically. For additional information, please visit their website.
The Illinois Prairie Chapter was founded in May 1991 under the guidance of Professor Emeritus Kimiko Gunji. Workshops are held by several teachers in their homes. At each workshop, a certified Ikenobo instructor will lecture and demonstrate on a specific style. Afterwards participants arrange ikebana, and the instructor critiques each individual arrangement. The Illinois Prairie Chapter holds many public workshops, exhibitions, and demonstrations, often in conjunction with special visiting professors. Many new members join because of these events.
If you would like to join the Ikebana Chapter there are annual dues which also cover cost the monthly workshops. You may also pay a fee for individual workshops. These costs vary due to what type of materials are being used.