Sketches of Ikebana Flower Arrangements
During this time of “self isolation,” I returned to look at a book about ikebana that had been in my library for many years. Having limited art supplies, I decided to make sketches of some of the arrangements but found myself fascinated not only by the multitude of arrangements but also by the theory. I had studied ikebana during our stay in Tokyo, but in reading through this book I learned a great deal more about the history, styles, and, indeed, the rules involved in creating this art form. Below are sketches from the first part of the book about various styles. The next posting will be sketches following the theory and instructions on how to make Moribana arrangements.
There are many schools of ikebana but my understanding is that there are also “styles” of arrangements. The introduction goes through various styles..and often the name of the style is determined by the type of container. Moribana style ikebana arrangements are done in shallow containers using a kenzan and Nageire style are done in tall containers. Seika style is also done in a specific container that determines the perpendicular nature of the Seika arrangement. There are also two level arrangements as well as divided arrangements (kubuwake) as you will see in my sketches. There are also contemporary styles and abstract styles.
The thumbnails do not give the full nature of the arrangement so be sure to click through the whole images. Click on view as slide show and then just click on the image and the following image will appear.
