“Anytime, anywhere, by anyone”
Ikebana is the Art of Japanese Flower Arrangement.
The concept of Sogetsu Ikebana is having freedom of expression through your arrangements. Anyone can enjoy Sogetsu Ikebana anytime, anywhere, using any materials. Sogetsu Ikebana arrangements reflect the artistic creativity of one’s inner self.
About Sogetsu Ikebana
In 1927, Sofu Teshigahara, son of ikebana artist Wafu Teshigawara, created the Sogetsu School of Ikebana. His goal was to increase the freedom and creativity possible in the traditional art of ikebana.
Sofu recognized ikebana as a creative art and encouraged people to freely express themselves through Ikebana. He taught: once all the rules are learned and techniques mastered, an unbounded field remains for freer personal expression using varied materials, not just flowers.
Sofu held exhibitions in Japan, but expanded to exhibiting across Europe and the US after World War ll. His contributions earned him prestigious honours, including the Order of Arts and Letters (1960) and the Legion of Honor (1961) from the French government, as well as Japan’s Minister of Education Art Encouragement Prize (1962).
In addition to Ikebana, he created various sculptures, drawings and works of calligraphy.
When he passed away, his daughter Kasumi Teshigahara took over as Iemoto (Headmistress). She was followed by her brother Hiroshi Teshigahara, a celebrated filmmaker of the Japanese New Wave who also pursued his interest in ikebana and sculpture on a professional level.
The 4th, and current, Iemoto is Akane Teshigahara, who succeeded her father Hiroshi Teshigahara in 2001. Under her tenure, the profile and popularity of Sogetsu Ikebana has only continued to grow worldwide.
Beginning in 1927, Sogetsu Ikebana has been loved by many people across the world. There are currently 120 Branches and Study Groups in 38 countries across six continents. The Sogetsu School of Ikebana will celebrate its 100th year anniversary in 2027.
About Sogetsu London branch
The Sogetsu School of Ikebana, London Branch was founded in December 2007 by Mrs Ikuyo Morrison. She was invited by Sogetsu headquarters, Tokyo, to set up a new organization in the UK. Mrs Morrison and the five other founding members established Sogetsu London as a community for students and teachers, providing information and opportunity to learn Sogetsu Ikebana in the London area.
Link to the Sogetsu Headquarters in Japan: http://www.sogetsu.or.jp