“Ikebana” is a Japanese style of floral design -- a sculptural art form in which nature and human creativity come together to create artistic flower arrangements. These designs not only include flowers but emphasize other parts of plants,- branches, stems and leaves. Shape, line and form are relevant to the artistic expression of the design.

For this beginners workshop, you will create two different arrangements using both branches, various greens, and flowers: a structured design using basic principles, and a free-style design with creative uses of greens and flowers.

Sensei Helen Tashima was first inspired by Ikebana (Japanese Flower arranging) at 10 years of age when she saw an amazing arrangement made by her mother who took Ikebana lessons. She first began taking an Ikebana class in 1991 taught by Mr. Shuko Kobayashi Sensei in Sacramento and while studying with him for 9 years, received her first teachers certificate; then she studied 18 years with Kika Shibata Sensei, and received the next level teachers certificate. Helen enjoys Ikebana because it is an art form that has endless possibilities for creative uses of materials. She has been an active member of Ikebana International since 1995 whose theme is “Friendship with Flowers.”