This is the first session based on our new curriculum. We welcome beginners, too. Please visit our page about our Ikebana Aesthetics Program.

Topic: Balance 1

Video Tutorial: https://youtu.be/0qUCBeIhOFU 

The first step in learning ikebana is to be familiar with asymmetrical balance. Trying to use asymmetrical triangles in your design is a great way to enhance your design. In the sample work the three points form an irregular triangle.

For more about Balance in ikebana, refer to a short essay, "Introduction to Ikebana Aesthetics" by Dr Shoso Shimbo (available shortly in English & Japanese). 

    

What You Need


1. secateur
2. kenzan or florist form or wire packed container (see a photo below)
3. container - any include a cup 
4. flower materials - long leaves (such as iris or NZ flax) and a few flowers (such as lilies, roses or any flower from your garden). Flower materials are guide only. You can choose any other materials as long as you focus on the topic . 


How to Make It? 


1. Measure the length of container (hight + diameter). If your container's hight is 5cm and diameter is 10cm, the length of your container is 15cm.   


2. Prepare the longest leave - 3 X Length of Container. In our example, the longest leave should be about 45cm. 


3. Prepare the 2nd Longest leave - about 75% of the longest leave.


4. Prepare the main flower. Adjust its highest so that the leaves and the flower head forms a sharp triangle. See the photo above.    


5. Fill unnecessary spaces using fillers, i.e. other flowers or leaves. Those fillers should be smaller or shorter so that the main flower can remain as the focal point. Don’t overuse fillers.  


What's Next?


1. Take a photo of your work. 


2. Book to join Zoom Ikebana Dojo by 16 June 2020. Use an application form in the page. That is the first step. 


3. Join Zoom Ikebana Dojo. Send your photo to our facilitator. Enjoy friendly feedback from our facilitator and other participants.