Ikebana International President giving a demonstration with her members
JCC had the pleasure of collaborating with Singapore’s own Ikebana community, the Ikebana International Singapore Chapter 135 (IISC 135) on Thursday 25th June. Japanese floral arrangement or Ikebana is a tradition passed down by generations and now, practiced all over the world. JCC and IISC 135 headed down to Serangoon Junior College where over 110 faculty members had hands-on experience in creating their own floral masterpieces.
Ikebana is a combination of Japanese words ‘Ike’ – to live and ‘bana’ also referred to as ‘hana’ which means flower. Appreciating nature in terms of ‘to spiritually be one with nature’, minimalism and silence are the many foundations of Ikebana. The art has been thought at various Ikebana schools such as, Ikenobo, Sogetsu, Misho, Ohara and the main school Saga Goryu was first established back in the 8th century.
The faculty members at Serangoon Junior College were first introduced to the efforts of JCC and IISC 135 by Mr Matsunaga Kazunori (Second Secretary of JCC), and Ms Viola Yong (President of IISC 135). The audience were treated to a live demonstration by Madam Joanna, an Ikebana teacher with over 20 years of experience. She demonstrated six different styles of the floral arrangement in less than 15 minutes. The audience were impressed by her intricate designs; especially at the fact that all her floral arrangements exuded professionalism and made in such a short period of time.
Soon after it was time for the faculty members to get on with their arrangements. Sunflowers and Green Fuji Mums were the main flowers utilized at the event. For many, it was their first time at the art and took this opportunity as a fresh insight to the Japanese culture. They were able to engage with the members from the chapter to learn more about the techniques and perspective of Ikebana. Nearing the end of the event, the audience were invited to join the chapter in furthering their interest. Due to the truly unique experience, the Ikebana International Singapore Chapter 135 were more than delighted to welcome numerous newcomers to their community.
|
