Introduction to Ikebana

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. GJG’s kensan and container are available for use in the workshop and the plant material is yours to take home.

Participants will make a basic style arrangement within the rules of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana. 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.

Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center. 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.
219A S. Main Avenue
Gresham, OR 97030

Cost: $50

Plant material, and a container kensan to use during class are included in the cost. Please bring your own pruning shears if you have them.

If you would like to take your arrangement home in one piece, and to practice ikebana, consider purchasing a kensan and basic container for $25 at the workshop.

2025 Workshop Dates

January 14th
February 11th
March 11th

Instructor: Nana G. Bellerud

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.

History of Sogetsu Ikebana

Sogetsu Ikebana is enjoyed throughout the world. The Sogetsu School stays within the family. Today it is run under the direction the 4th Iemoto Akane Teshigahara (Sofu’s granddaughter). Under her style, while the relationships existing between the elements of line, mass, space and colour remain unchanged in Sogetsu principles, she has introduced greater emphasis upon floral material and colour. Akane’s focus is on maintaining the relevance of ikebana with contemporary life.

READ MORE ABOUT THE ART OF IKEBANA

Workshop Cancellation Policy

We do not issue refunds on workshop registrations. 

If you register for a workshop and later become unable to attend, we will gladly offer a credit toward any future event if you notify us at least 24 hours before the workshop. If your inquiry comes in less than 24 hours, a $8 fee for plant material and prep will be billed to you.

To cancel and request a credit, please email us at administrator@greshamjapanesegarden.com. Workshop credits are not redeemable for cash. Please note: Credits cannot be given for registrations for workshops hosted by visiting/out of town instructors. Due to the nature of these one-time-only workshops, all events hosted by special guests are subject to this policy. Thank you for understanding!

In the event a class is cancelled or rescheduled due to inclement weather, or any incident where GJG or its instructors are at fault, you will receive a credit to take another class at a later date.

About Our Policy

Our workshops require a great deal of pre-planning, including ordering supplies and tools, booking staff, and making commitments to pay our instructors — all based on the number of students who register. In fairness to all of our customers we are unable to make exceptions to our policy, including for reasons of illness, travel, or work hours. If you are unable to attend a workshop at the last minute, we suggest giving your spot to a friend!

Thank you for understanding!

The GJG Team