Ikebana —— Transcending the boundaries of generations.
It is said that Ninna-ji temple’s Omuro school of Ikebana was founded by Emperor Uda, and originated from the practice of offering flowers at Buddhist altars.
Flowers have always been offered as an expression of our gratitude. Through Ikebana, both the person who arranges the flowers, and the people who come to appreciate the flowers, share precious moments of (spiritual) relaxation. It is through these shared moments that Ikebana preserves the traditions and practices of Kyoto’s rich culture from the passing of time. Indeed I believe this ‘shared relaxation’ is the true face of this popular and well-loved art.
We spend time learning the forms and discipline that our forefathers established in order to further understand the traditional idea of beauty. We would like to transmit these wonderful traditions, this wonderful culture, and above all the fact that Ikebana is there to be enjoyed, to the coming generations. And we feel that it is now more important than ever to continue to protect and nurture the art of Ikebana.
Satsuki Nakajima
