Ikebana: More Than Just Floral Design, It’s a Contemplative Art

This undated photo provided by Lauren Paul shows an example of the Japanese flower-arranging tradition of ikebana. While Western floral design typically emphasizes flowers and color, ikebana is more focused on the sculptural lines, proportions and shape of the arrangement. Paul is president of Ikebana International's Detroit chapter. Lauren Paul via AP

Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arranging. It’s a tradition that goes back centuries, and its design principles are governed by specific rules and techniques. But as with any art, creativity and self-expression are part of the process. And while it takes years of study to earn teaching credentials in ikebana, it’s possible to pick up a basic introduction to the craft in a lesson or two.

Not Just About the Flowers

For Westerners accustomed to vases overflowing with blossoms and rich colours, the ikebana aesthetic can be hard to grasp.

“Usually the flowers are not as prominent as they would be in a Western-style arrangement,” said Lauren Paul, president of the Detroit chapter of Ikebana International, an organization that has 165 chapters in more than 50 countries.