Ikebana

nature’s arrangement
maple and chrysanthemum
helped by human hands

Kim M. Russell, 2017

Image found on Pinterest

My response to Carpe Diem #1152 Ikebana

I missed the first part of the journey through Japan, the mother of haiku, but I’m picking it up with Ikebana, Japanese floral art. Chèvrefeuille has shared a Facebook group, The World Ikebana Society, where we can find wonderful pieces of Ikebana.

He explained that Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement, also known as kadō (‘the way of flowers’), which dates back to the 7th century, when floral offerings were made at altars. Later, they were placed in the tokonoma alcove of a home.

‘More than simply putting flowers in a container, Ikebana is a disciplined art form in which nature and humanity are brought together. Contrary to the idea of a particolored or multicolored arrangement of blossoms, Ikebana often emphasizes other areas of the plant, such as its stems and leaves, and puts emphasis on shape, line, and form. Though Ikebana is an expression of creativity, certain rules govern its form. The artist’s intention behind each arrangement is shown through a piece’s color combinations, natural shapes, graceful lines, and the implied meaning of the arrangement.

The spiritual aspect of Ikebana is considered very important to its practitioners. Some practitioners feel silence is needed while making Ikebana while others feel this is not necessary. It is a time to appreciate things in nature that people often overlook because of their busy lives. One becomes more patient and tolerant of differences, not only in nature, but also in general. Ikebana can inspire one to identify with beauty in all art forms. This is also the time when one feels closeness to nature, which provides relaxation for the mind, body, and soul.’ (Source: wikipedia)

For this episode, Chèvrefeuille has tried to create an Ikebana tanka that brings the beauty and serenity of this art form together with the beauty of tanka.

© Chèvrefeuille