To experience and learn about the rich cultural diversity and aesthetic beauty of Japan, one must visit the exhibition “Blossoms of Hope 2024” by the members of Ikebana International Sri Lanka Chapter #262. It will be held at the Ivy Room of the Cinnamon Grand Hotel on May 10.

This elaborate exhibition of Japanese floral design, known as Ikebana, will feature many stunning flower arrangements, all created by members of the Chapter. Those attending can expect to see flowers arranged in many kinds of containers, using both natural elements and some surprising sculptural components. Look for innovative uses of wire, plastic, paper and, of course, flowers and branches.

It’s thought that Ikebana has its roots in the sixth century, when Chinese Buddhists, who traveled to Japan as missionaries, created floral offerings as part of their religious practice, although a deep appreciation of flowers and plants was already entrenched in Japanese culture and the Shinto faith, where God resides in everything.

In Japan, teachings of Zen declared that the universe is contained in everything, even the smallest detail, and so the Japanese find this particular reason to depict plants and flowers in containers in their homes. Japanese people know how to choose combinations of flowers and foliage, which speak their own special language; a language which is sweeter and more understandable than the language of words.

In Japan, there are several schools, each with its own style with special vases, but in Sri Lanka most members follow the Sogetsu School of Ikebana, established in 1927, which is a less formal form of traditional Ikebana. Members express their feelings through the meditative art of Sogetsu Ikebana, spreading peace and harmony and friendship through flowers. There are universal principles of a sense of harmony and balance, that is intrinsic in all good designs.

What makes Ikebana especially poignant and potent at this time, is its direct and personal connection to nature, its awareness of and emphasis on decay in an era in which our own ecological and environmental ruin feels more vivid than ever.

A visit to the exhibition, one slows down and in that moment looking at the arrangements, one sees nature in a more beautiful way, as the flowers and foliage are showcased in interesting ways. It is very therapeutic and making friends with nature guarantees that one will live a long life!

Entrance to the exhibition is Rs.500.00. This exhibition “Blossoms of Hope 2024” has a twofold purpose, one to showcase the talents of its members and the other, to bring hope to the lives of children in the Paediatric ward of Apeksha Cancer Hospital, Maharagama. Part sponsor Midaya Ceramic Company Limited.