Ikebana for Every Season

The Art of Ikebana

Ikebana is a traditional Japanese art form that has three main components: natural material (flowers, tree branches, leaves, conifer needles, etc.), the vase, the kenzan, (a holder for strengthening the stem and keeping the arrangement in the desired position). The basic aesthetic principle of ikebana is a refined simplicity achieved by bringing out the natural beauty of the material. These principles determine the arrangement’s composition, colors, and textures.

What to Expect

In this workshop, instructor Nana Bellerud covers the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. All supplies and tools are included with the workshop.

Participants will make one basic style arrangement and one freestyle arrangement with emphasis on seasonal themes. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects, instructor Nana Bellerud will show you how ikebana explores artistic concepts such as balance, contrast, and negative space.

The workshop is limited to 9 students for an interactive experience. Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot there too.

Nana G. Bellerud, Ikebana Instructor

Nana G. Bellerud has been studying the Sogetsu School of Ikebana since 2005 and continues to be inspired and discover new insights from its teachings. Nana demonstrates, exhibits, and teaches ikebana at a wide range of venues, including the Portland Art Museum, Portland Japanese Garden, and Leach Botanical Garden. Through her demonstrations and workshops, she seeks to introduce others to the art of ikebana and to intrigue and inspire them. Nana is currently serving as Branch Director of Sogetsu Portland and is a past President of Ikebana International Portland Chapter #47.