Japanese Ikebana comes to Coolart

Monday 23 April, 2012

The ancient art of Japanese flower arrangement will be on display at the historic Coolart Homestead from next weekend. Ikebana is more than simply putting flowers in a vase. It is a disciplined art form based on the linear perfection, colour harmony, space and form. In Japan, flower arrangements are used as decorations on a level with paintings and other art objects.

It’s said that Ikebana was bought to Australia by Melbourne born Norman Sparnon who after joining the army pre WWII, spent twelve years living in post war Japan. During that time he studied under the great masters of Ikebana, and upon his return was committed to introducing it to Australians.

The Coolart exhibition will feature the arrangements of Sensei Carlyn and teachers of the Victorian Sogetsu School of Ikebana. Their creations will be both traditional and sculptural in style and in large and small arrangements.

The origin of Ikebana in Japan dates from about the seventh century, when the custom of offering flowers to Buddah entered Japan from China and Korea along with the introduction of Buddhism. Having emerged from its historical setting, Ikebana can now be seen in homes, offices, conference rooms and hotel lobbies.

The original Sogetsu School was founded in 1927, by the late Sofu Teshigahara, who believed Ikebana should be both enjoyable and creative. He developed the Kakeiho method which combined several styles, and made Ikebana available to everyone. In this way Sofu spread the art form throughout the world, as well as staging exhibitions of his own Ikebana-based sculptures.

The exhibition runs from 28 April – 6 May, 9:00am to 4:30pm.

Admission is FREE

Enquiries – Heather Crabtree 59 832083 0437 369 062