Spirit of Ikebana and Sogetsu

Ikebana (生け花) is the Japanese art of flower arrangement where blossoms, branches, leaves, and stems find new life as materials for art-making.

In contrast to western habits of placing flowers in a vase, Ikebana aims to bring out the inner qualities of flowers and its expression.

Considerations of colour, line, form, and function guide the construction of a work.

The spirit of Ikebana can apply to all periods, while the style of works may change overtime.

"Ikebana Sogetsu" by Sofu Teshigahara (1962)

Sogetsu School

In 1927, when everybody believed practicing Ikebana meant following established forms, Sofu Teshigahara (1900 - 1979) recognised Ikebana as a creative art and founded the Sogetsu school. His ethos - anyone can enjoy Sogetsu Ikebana anytime, anywhere, using any material.

Left: Doris Wong creating a large piece. Right: Inside page of Sogetsu magazine. Below: Sogetsu school logo.

IKEBANA (1956)

A film by Sofu Teshigahara's son Hiroshi Teshigahara (1927-2001), a celebrated Japanese artist and film-maker who became the grand-master of the Sogetsu school in 1980.

Find out more about the Sogetsu Iemoto (headmasters) and their work at the Sogetsu website.