A Contemporary Approach to the Traditional Japanese Art of Flower Arranging
by Keiko Kubo, photography by Erich Schrempp

Kubo brings her skills as a sculptor, certified ikebana instructor, and student of Western floral design to this introduction to the traditional Japanese art form, which includes directions for 20 arrangements. The author describes her approach to ikebana as a freestyle mix of classical principles and contemporary Western design. By playing with three main elements (line, volume, and accent), Kubo says, even beginners can create a wide variety of designs that bring out the inherent beauty of flowers, leaves, branches, and other natural materials.

 

Kubo provides a concise history of ikebana, dating to the 6th-century custom of offering flowers to Buddha, and explains styles that have developed up to the present day. She also gives brief but thorough descriptions of the tools and techniques needed to master this floral art, as well as a list of resources for supplies. Kubo's respectful but eclectic take on tradition is refreshing. Novice practitioners will likely welcome her less-is-more philosophy, in which a minimum of materials are transformed into satisfying art forms.