Private Ikebana Experiences

Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, was practiced as a refined art of the samurai class for centuries along with tea ceremony and incense appreciation. Mika Otani is an leading ikebana artist as an innovative force in the art form, keeping it relevant in the 21st century. She shares her aesthetic insight and hands-on techniques through private, English-taught lessons suitable for any level inclding beginners. According to Otani, the beauty of ikebana is that it is an art made from nature; not only flowers, but also branches, leaves, sprouts, tree bark, soil, and air. The practitioner becomes part of the work, as each arrangement is unique, according to the person’s feelings at that time.

Lessons include all materials needed such as vases, special scissors, and flowers. It starts with a demonstration of techniques, after which the students can try their own arrangements, to which the teacher will give individual advice on. After the lesson, students can take their flowers with them.

Otani is affiliated with the Sogetsu school, one of Japan’s most respected ikebana institutions. The school was founded in 1927 with the philosophy that ikebana is always new and freely reflects the individuality of the person, without being bound by "form".