Explore different sides of Ikebana flower arranging

Master Davis Komeiji will teach the workshop. (Photo
courtesy Ikebana International Sacramento Chapter)

Special workshop focuses on Saga Goryu with a master

By Debbie Arrington

Immerse yourself in Asian philosophy – and bring home a beautiful flower arrangement. 

Ikebana International’s Sacramento Chapter presents a special workshop Saturday, Aug. 13, at Sacramento’s Shepard Garden and Arts Center. The full-day session will be led by Master David Komeiji of the Saga Goryu School of Ikebana.

Set for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, this workshop includes a Japanese Bento box lunch as well as instruction and materials. (Contact organizer for pricing at ikebanasacramento@gmail.com.)

Saga Goryu-style Ikebana is different from other interpretations of this flower-arranging philosophy. 

“Learn and experience the Eastern Philosophy; spend the day enriching your appreciation for this art and create your own arrangement!” say the organizers.

The Saga Goryu School of Ikebana traces back to the Ninth Century and is deeply rooted in Shingon Buddhism. What makes this style of Ikebana different is how the arrangement works with the world around it; it’s not just flowers in a vase.

“Saga Goryu’s arrangements are created in a ‘context,’” say the organizers. “The reason for the arrangement, selection of display space, vase, arrangement stand and materials all set the scene for the arrangement. The idea that an arrangement is the most important item neglects the other contextual components and detracts from the Ikebana works.” 

Saga Goryu arrangements convey a sense of balance, stability and relaxation. That sense extends to the maker as well as the viewer.

See for yourself during this special event.

Learn more and register at: www.ikebanasacramento.com/events.

-- Debbie Arrington