We are the official Branch in London of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana based in Japan. We have a small organising committee of volunteers who are very dedicated. Members are from all walks of life and nationalities but have a common denominator: The love of Ikebana. A warm welcome to our viewers…..
Sofu Teshigahara created the Sogetsu School of Ikebana in 1927, to increase freedom and creativity in the traditional art of ikebana.
When he passed away, his daughter Kasumi took over as Iemoto (Headmistress). She was followed by Hiroshi Teshigahara, her brother, who was a filmmaker while simultaneously pursuing his interest in ikebana and sculpture on a professional level.
Iemoto Akane Teshigahara followed in her father’s footsteps and the Sogetsu School is flourishing across the world.
The great idea of the Sogetsu School is that anyone can create and enjoy Sogetsu Ikebana anytime, anywhere, using any material.
The principle is that the arrangement reflects the personality of the arranger and his/her mood at the time of arranging.
Once the basic rules and techniques have been learnt, the students are guided by their teachers into the ‘free style’ arrangements. Through regular practice they uncover their innate artistic creativity, leading to much pleasure, satisfaction and therefore well-being.
Nowadays, ikebana is practised by both men and women. Ikebana keeps an open window of calm, peace and reflection within the hustle and bustle of the modern world.
Link to the Sogetsu Headquarters in Japan: http://www.sogetsu.or.jp