Esprit Bonsai International – August 2019

74 - EspritBonsaiInternational #101

Ikebana
Senshin Ikenobo

Text: Marette Renaudin

Photos: Bénédicte de Saint-Martin

   Plants and summer heat inspire refreshing

arrangements, with water suggested or

even included as a compositional element.

What most permeates ikebana is nature.

Ever since the 7th century, the idea of “great nature”

associated with Buddhism has held an important

place in the development of the traditional styles of-

fered to Buddha. Although from the 16th century to

today arrangements, vases and styles have undergone

radical transformation in line with social change, the

notion of ephemeral nature with its passing seasons

has remained one of the main rules required for ma-

king an ikebana arrangement.

In practice, it is of course all about connecting with

plants that celebrate every moment of the year. So

the summer season suggests refreshing compositions

that take account of the variety and colours of plants,

marrying them to suitable vases in styles chosen to

give a sense of cool when temperatures are at their

highest.

Suggesting water

In terms of plant matter, aquatic species such as

bulrushes, reeds, iris leaves, lotus, waterlilies or wa-

ter irises are popular choices. Arums, blue irises, gen-

tians and montbretias are also good options. Blue-

berry (natsuhaze) branches, which turn crimson in

the autumn, symbolise Japan’s dense forests. In the

transition from summer to autumn, chrysanthemums

make their first appearance.

Green-coloured plants in paler, near-yellow tones

give a note of freshness. A spot of blue or red in the

arrangement can be energising. White will add par-

ticular elegance.

As for containers, when the weather is getting hotter

and hotter, it’s good to opt for simple, restrained ones

Seeking

some

summer cool

 Shin-ka-tai style

Branch of Japanese

blueberry (natsuhaze),

leaves of Iris orientalis

and Choisya.

Here, the iris leaf gives

elan to the pared-

back branch. The

combination of greens

in tune with the

vase gives a cooling

look. Arrangement

by Tadjima Sensei.

 Natural-style suiban

Japanese blueberry (natsuhaze), chrysanthemums,

Solomon’s seal. The celadon pot showcases the

water’s surface. Arrangement by Tadjima Sensei.