28/08/2026
Last week, a special ikebana exhibition was held at the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Ikenobo Australia Chapter.
Ikenobo is the oldest school of ikebana in Japan and the origin of the art form that has been loved around the world for more than 550 years.
One of the fundamental philosophies of Ikenobo is that there is beauty even in a withered flower. From a bud beginning to open, to a flower in full bloom, and eventually to the moment it fades, every stage of life holds its own beauty.
I feel that this philosophy shares a deep connection with Kintsugi. Both teach us to find beauty not only in perfection, but also in imperfection and transience — a Zen-inspired way of seeing and appreciating life.
Although I am still relatively new to Ikenobo, this exhibition became a truly significant experience in my life. I was deeply moved not only by the extraordinary skills and artistic sensibilities of the next Headmaster, Moribe Sensei, and my own teacher, Aya Sensei, but also by their character, the respect they inspire in others, and their humility.
Through ikebana, Kintsugi, tea ceremony, and the teachings of Zen, I found myself wishing that perhaps, one day, I could learn to live with even a small part of the grace, humility, and depth that these three remarkable people embody.
I feel incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to witness and experience such a special moment, and I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Aya Sensei for making this wonderful experience possible.
(My very first Shoka Style, after receiving a touch of magic from Moribe Sensei ☺️🌸)
