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. All supplies and tools are included with the workshop.
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.
After you’ve worked on your piece of art, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work to take home your plant material and practice making working on your arrangement.
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.
NOTE: This workshop is on the FIRST Tuesday of the month.
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.