Facing the plants with ikebana
“Facing the plants and being conscious of gravity is indeed akin to meditation...”
Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, transcends mere decoration to become a philosophical journey that blends nature and humanity into living sculptures. This disciplined art form, rooted in ancient Japanese rituals, stresses simplicity, balance, and harmony. It invites both arranger and observer into a moment of introspection and peace.
As we explore its rich history and intricate styles, ikebana reveals itself as a deep, spiritual connection to the natural world, encouraging a profound appreciation for the transient beauty of life and the often overlooked details in each branch, leaf, and flower.
Watarai Toru, a master of ikebana, meticulously observes his surroundings, drawing inspiration from them to replicate the essence of these experiences in his home arrangements. For it is in the unusual that we often manage to notice the ordinary. Below is an extract from his interview in issue 11.
How it started
I grew up in a rural area surrounded by fields and mixed forests, and from a young age, I enjoyed wandering in nature. I was enveloped by the sounds of the wind rustling through the trees and the scents of plants and the land that changed with the seasons. In spring, bamboo shoots would appear on the hill behind our house, and in summer, we would enjoy homegrown summer vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, eggplants, and watermelons. As autumn arrived, we would savour the harvest of pears, persimmons, and chestnuts. During the winter, I would observe preparations for New Year’s rituals like pounding rice cakes and decorating with pine branches, all while feeling the changing seasons intimately.
What it is
For me, ikebana serves as a way to slow down the constantly accelerating pace of modern society, convey the simple beauty that surrounds us, and cleanse impurities of thought. These sentiments drive ikebana. Facing the plants and being conscious of gravity is indeed akin to meditation, but it’s far from a perfect act. When a plant’s form is shaped in response to the land and its environment and then the plant is detached from that context, it becomes a hollow presence. When arranging such plants, one can only strive to do their best.
A lesson to take
Observe plants and nature in your daily life using all five senses, notice their changes, and dedicate time to such activities. Create mental space to focus your awareness.
Enjoy some of Watarai Toru’s mesmerising works:
Like what you see but don’t know where to start?
Follow these simple steps to begin your ikebana journey. Remember, this is about expressing your unique vision — there's no need for pressure or haste.
Research ikebana styles: Learn about the different styles of ikebana, such as rikka, shōka, and moribana, to understand their principles and aesthetics.
Select your materials: Choose a combination of branches, leaves, and flowers. Focus on seasonal flora to reflect the current time of year.
Observe nature: Pay attention to how plants grow and interact in nature. This observation will guide your arrangements.
Practice asymmetry: Embrace the beauty of asymmetry to create balance and interest in your arrangements.
Focus on space: Remember that empty space is as important as the elements you include. It contributes to the overall harmony.
Start simple: Begin with a basic arrangement using just a few elements to practice form and balance.
Reflect and adjust: Take a step back to look at your arrangement from all angles, making adjustments as needed.
Learn from others: Attend workshops or view online tutorials for practical guidance and inspiration.
Keep practicing: Ikebana is an art that grows with you. Regular practice will refine your skills and deepen your appreciation for this tranquil art form.
