Seeing Sensei Hosono at work - our Delhi visit

December 12th 2017

When we heard that sensei Yoka Hosono from HQs would be coming to the Delhi Sogetsu chapter, we of course were very keen to attend from Chennai.  Seven of us from the Chennai Study Group assembled at the airport on the morning of 12th, filled with anticipation and excitement at the coming treat.  Pushkala had even packed a handy breakfast for each of us!!  As we sat munching on the yummy idlies, we looked through the windows at the tarmac and much to our horror, the winter mist/fog had descended and we could not even see the runway!

As a result our flight departed more than three and a half hours late, and we were sure to be late for the 230pm start of the demonstration to the Embassy of Japan.  Mrs Veena Dass kindly organised to keep our bags  as we rushed directly to the Embassy.

Alas, the demonstration was just done, and we were only in time for the sumptuous and refreshing tea!!  One of our members Chitra who had travelled earlier was the lucky one to sit through the demonstration.  However, we enjoyed viewing the completed exhibits.

This large piece at the entrance gave us a warm welcome.

The nine pieces that were spread out on the tables.  The room was magical, with the backdrop of the Japanese-style windows.

Working with local materials, sensei Hosono used depth, movement and space to create this freestyle composition.

Sensei along with the Basic moribana composition in a large suiban.

Complementing the container

The challenge of the shape of the container

Working with dry material and driftwood

Creating width across a shallow container

Mirroring the colours and lines on the vase

Highlighting the orange of the container

The smiles say it all!

December 13th

Awaiting the start of the curriculum sessions

The joy of seasonal material

Working without a kenzan

Sensei's assistant is a member of the Delhi Chapter.

An unusual container calls for interesting treatment!

Experimenting with a glass vase

Lotus is a common yet significant material for us in India, and in south India it flowers almost through the year. Used in worship, it is usually available in the markets with a short stalk.  Also, the material is such that the stem does not hold the leaf or flower erect.  Is it possible to use this material tall, in an arrangement.  In order to get some tips on treatment and usage, Pushkala and Chitra had organised for lotus leaves and flowers, so that sensei Hosono could explain the treatment method.

The video below shows sensei Hosono pumping the stems full of water, so as to give the stalks firmness and the ability to be erect.

The Chennai group with sensei Hosono

It was a lovely two days for us ladies from Chennai, and we bade farewell and thanks to the members of the Delhi chapter who were wonderful hosts as usual.