It was meant to be just a joyful relaxing hobby when I started to learn about Ikebana with the Ikenobo school. Now, after over ten years of learning and practice Ikenobo Ikebana, I am skilled enough to hold classes. I love to hold ‘beginner’ classes where interacting with people who have strong interest in learning Ikebana gives me joy in sharing what I have learnt while at the same time I learn different points of views or perspectives from them. The pursuit of any worthwhile skill is a life long journey. (My aunty is an example who started me on my Ikebana journey). I am continuing to learn more about the philosophy as well as skills in the art of Ikebana, the art of Japanese flower arrangement, with my teacher in Ealing. For my recent assignment from my teacher, I created an arrangement in a more informal way than I normally do while following the fundamental structure. The arrangement received a very positive comment from the teacher. She said, “This arrangement is in very different style from your normal approach and it is very nice.”
My new approach opened up another part of my inner self and an ability which was not readily visible. Having regular lessons and observing other people’s arrangements are a great help. Through continuing in my pursuit with Ikebana more design ideas have started to appear naturally. I am surprised to discover that I have developed my skills without being conscious while just continuing with the practice. With this experience I am motivated to continue learning more. Last week I received the next level certificate which allows me the status of Assistant Professor. I believe that having a good teacher who can guide one is very important part of learning.
Initially I became interested in Ikebana through my aunt who has over 50 years’ experience and is a very respected teacher. I genuinely respect her skills in Ikebana compositions. Her inner tranquillity shine through her compositions and that kind of creativity is definitely the result of the pursuit of skill. I also want to express that in my Ikebana arrangements.