Yesterday we held the first Introductory workshop at Fran’s Chocolates in Georgetown. Nine people signed up and tried the first lesson [Lesson 1 – 1: Basic Upright Style – Moribana].
Materials used were…. Raspberry foliage, Ninebark, Hypericum, Nigella, Scabiosa.
The workshop was well received and we are planning another one soon. If you are interested in attending the workshop, please contact me.
Hi Akemi-san,
I enjoyed your workshop yesterday. Your presentation in the beginning was just the right amount. The one-page introduction was an excellent addition. I also liked your idea of using only two flower/branch materials to learn the basic form. By limiting the flower choice, it helped me to focus on the form rather than being distracted by color and shape of each flower/branch. Your comments for each student’s ikebana at the end was both fun and educational. This is a well-organized workshop and I recommend it to anyone who wants to learn ikebana.
Hi Koh-san,
Thank you for coming to the workshop. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
It was such a fun class! I learned a lot. It IS harder than it looks.
The final critique was very fun because Akemi was able to show us exactly how small adjustments and pruning brings more structure to the arrangement and creates balance and space. The result is immediate and quite exciting.
What a treat to be able to enjoy the gallery at Fran’s. It is just a wonderful setting. Thank you Fran and thank you Akemi.
Hi Susan,
The critique (I call it experiment) is useful for all of us. Let’s experiment and make as many mistakes and we all learn from them!
After your class, Akemi, feel I look at the world differently. I think about the shape of empty space. I search for ways to create something of beauty by using less, not more. All I can say is that this is so much more than ‘flower arranging.’ It’s a very Zen experience, like Yoga or meditation. My favorite part is at the end when your tiny adjustments deliver big results. Wow! Such a treat to be in Fran’s gorgeous building surrounded by finely crafted, artisanal chocolates. Thank you Akemi and thank you Fran.
Hi Joann,
It’s so true that Ikebana is Zen-like experience. The busier your life is, the more important it gets to stop and contemplate… And I thank Fran for letting us use their beautiful space!