Japanese Ambassador Hosts Ikebana (Flower Arrangement Art) Demonstration

Hi People! 
I attended an Ikebana (flower arrangement art) demonstration at Transcorp Hilton on Friday. It was organized by the Ambassador of Japan Mr Ryuichi Shoji. 
Before now, I had an idea of how to arrange flowers but none of the techniques or history of the art.
Ikebana is thought to have come to Japan as part of Buddhist practice. The offering of flowers on the altar in honor of Buddha was part of worship. Literally translated, It means “living flowers” or “giving life to flowers” or “keep alive flower”. 

More pictures after the cut.

More than simply putting flowers in a container, ikebana is a disciplined art form in which nature and humanity are brought together. Contrary to the idea of floral arrangement as a collection of particolored or multicolored arrangement of blooms, ikebana often emphasizes other areas of the plant, such as its stems and leaves, and draws emphasis toward shape, line, form. 

The structure of Ikebana flower arrangement is based on a scalene triangle delineated by three main points, usually twigs, considered to symbolize heaven, man or human being and earth. The container is a key element of the composition, and various styles of pottery may be used in their construction.

Mr Teshigahara who was born into the most famous modern school of flower arrangement (ikebana) in Japan, demonstrated to and educated a small audience on the basics of Ikebana.

It was a very good experience and like most things Japanese, I find the art minimalist, uncluttered, exquisite and elegant.
All plants used in the demonstration are from the gardens of the Serbian and Japanese Embassies in Abuja.