Ikebana is a Japanese, creative art of flower arrangement that recreates the vital spirit of beauty through the use of all types of plant material gathered from the environment. It is a disciplined form of art bringing nature and humanity together.
Ikebana is more than just putting flowers into a container. It is the art of giving flowers new life. Translation of the word Ikebana is casually interpreted to mean “bring life to flowers.” Arrangements require close attention to shapes found in nature, colors and textures of materials. Flowers, as described in the word Ikebana, ‘live’ in the container and are given new life when they are arranged to symbolize harmony.
What distinguishes Ikebana from other forms of floral arranging is its asymmetrical form and the use of empty space. Harmony among the materials, the container, and the setting are also crucial. Ikebana is a creative expression which gives enjoyment to the person making the arrangement.