ikebana dojo
enjoy the art of japanese flower arrangement
we are sogetsuryu ikebana
What is Sogetsu?
Sogetsuryu Ikebana is a modern school of ikebana that captures nature's essence through creative arrangements. Founded by Sōfu Teshigawara in the early 20th century, this style encourages personal expression while respecting tradition.
In 1927, when everybody believed practicing ikebana meant following established forms, Sofu Teshigahara recognized ikebana as a creative art and founded the Sogetsu School. Anyone can enjoy Sogetsu Ikebana anytime, anywhere, using any material. You can place Sogetsu Ikebana at your door, in you living room or on your kitchen table. Sogetsu Ikebana enhances any hotel lobby or banquet room, shop windows and huge public spaces. It will suit any kind of space, Japanese or Western and enrich its atmosphere.
Today's Ikebana Places
“Anytime, anywhere, by anyone,” Sogetsu Ikebana can be created. It suits alcoves and dining tables at home as well as hotel lobbies, banquet rooms, shop windows, large public spaces and anywhere to be enhanced by adding color to the modern world.
Living through flowers
In our living environment where more and more artificial and inorganic substances are being used, flowers bring peace of mind to us. Once you have an interaction with flowers, you may come to feel like arranging them on your own to entertain someone. Ikebana can satisfy such a natural urge.
(from www.sogetsu.or.jp)
the ikebana dojo
A dojo is more than just a physical space; it embodies a philosophy, a sanctuary for growth and creativity. At Ikebana Dojo, we blend tradition with innovation, nurturing the artistry of flower arranging in a dynamic environment.
Within the dojo's walls, practitioners are encouraged to explore their unique styles while respecting the time-honored techniques of ikebana. Through hands-on workshops and collaborative sessions, we foster a culture of experimentation, where the boundaries of floral design are continually pushed. Ethereal simplicity meets bold expression, and each arrangement captures the essence of its creator.
The dojo also serves as a gathering place for like-minded individuals who share a passion for beauty and mindfulness. It is here that ideas bloom and evolve, woven together by a community dedicated to both the art form and each other. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious novice, each visit to the dojo is an opportunity to reconnect with nature, discover new perspectives, and elevate your craft.
Join us on this innovative journey, where every stem holds potential and every petal whispers creativity.
classes offered
The standard Sogetsu Textbooks, which consist of “Sogetsu Textbook 1&2” , “Sogetsu Textbook 3・4” and “Sogetsu Textbook 5” are used in the lessons. They cover all the necessary basics for beginners to enjoy acquiring skills through actual interaction with flowers, deepen their understanding of the plant materials, and eventually master a high level of self-expression through flowers.
Introduction to Ikebana
Curriculum 1: Kakei
20 Lessons in about 6 months
The basics of Ikebana are studied through a method called Kakei-ho.Upon completion, application can be made for The First Certificate (Yonkyu).
Curriculum 2: Kakei
20 Lessons in about 6 months
As an extension of basic Kakei, Variation Styles are studied.Upon completion, application can be made for The Second Certificate (Sankyu).
Intermediate Ikebana
Curriculum 3: Composition and Line, Color and Mass
20 Lessons in about 6 months
The new stage of free arrangement begins, apart from Kakei-ho.
Upon completion, application can be made for The Third Certificate (Nikyu).
Curriculum 4: Material and Space
20 Lessons in about 6 months
A higher level of expression is mastered by deepening understanding of the material and the space.
Upon completion, application can be made for The Fourth Certificate (Ikkyu).
Advanced Ikebana
Lessons for Teacher's Diploma (Necessary for teacher certification)
Curriculum 5: Technique and Creation
30 Lessons in about 10 months.
After completing all the studies of the four curricula, lessons continue for acquisition of a Teacher’s Diploma (to be officially certified as Sogetsu teacher). At this stage, the curriculum composed of the four key words “Technique,” “Materials,” “Placement,” and “Creation” learned to get a more confident foundation of skills, knowledge, and greater creativity. At the same time, training is required to gain mental preparedness as a teacher. Upon completion of Curriculum 5, application can be made for Teacher’s Diploma Fourth Grade (the first stage of teacher’s diploma), a Hand-carved Kanban/Name board, and Hand-carved Sekisatsu/Nameplate.
contact us
Join the growing community of ikebana enthusiasts and uncover the transformative power of this elegant craft. Whether you're looking to express your creativity, cultivate patience, or simply appreciate beauty in its most serene form, ikebana offers a captivating journey worth exploring. Discover the innovative ways this timeless art can enhance your life, one arrangement at a time.
We are located in the heart of Irvine, 5 minutes from John Wayne airport. Inside, BUTOKUDEN Martial Arts Center.
Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
ikebana@butokuden.com
949.756.8880