Illustrating the Sogetsu School’s commitment to originality, Don Davidson placed orange peppers into sprung coils spray painted purple for one arrangement and used a structure formed by bamboo poles stuck into a wine rack for another. Don’s presentation was a highlight of the March General Meeting.

Don explained that Sofu Teshigahara, the founder of the school, 90 years ago, regarded ikebana as a creative art form to be enjoyed anytime, anywhere, using anything, rather than practicing established forms and styles. Don talked about finding inspiration in the example set by Teshigahara and urged Chapter members and guests at the March General Meeting to have fun practicing ikebana — an arrangement will turn out differently from one day to the next. Embrace the difference and enjoy the process, Don urged.

For the program, “90 Years of Sogetsu,” Leslie Dolin and Nana Bellerud gave presentations about the teachings of iemotos, Kasumi,  Akane and Hiroshi Teshigahara, including miniature arrangements, bamboo designs, and ways to engage children with ikebana. Don’s demonstration was a tribute to the founder, Sofu Teshigahara.

Thirty members and their guests attended the luncheon meeting at the Holladay Crown Plaza. During the business meeting, the members present affirmed the 2017-2018 Slate of Officers. A survey by a show of hands was taken to gauge the main reason for attending General Meetings: the program, the lunch, the camaraderie, or all three. To no one’s surprise, everyone attends for all three reasons.

Kathryn Cochran, Claire McInerney, Sasha Cox and Julie Nakao displayed arrangements representing their respective schools, Ikenobo, Ohara, Ichiyo and Saga Goryu. Flowers from Diantha Knott’s garden graced each of the tables.

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