Ikebana and us

20th November 2021 For our November workshop, our Chairperson Sensei Malathi, chose an interesting theme of "Texture".  There was a discussion as to whether we could do it face to face, or should we do it via online. Finally, while participation was online, our sensei Pushkala braved the heights of the Chennai monsoon to use the ABK AOTS Dosokai venue and Zoom link to demonstrate on this theme. As usual, she was well planned for her demonstration and also meticulous in her execution.   She began with a wooden vase, for which she used the cane swirls to highlight the texture of the vase. The mirroring of the vase design as well was skilful, and the single anthurium - brought a focal point.   For her second composition, Sensei Pushkala brought out an interesting steel grill painted black - a structure that she created  and painted herself!   Her dark coloured saree prevented us from seeing it well, so we requested her to display the vase, and here is a screenshot of the structu

24th October was a memorable day for us at Chennai Sogetsu, as we kicked off our establishment as a Branch with a wonderful online demonstration from Tokyo by Riji Sensei Ken Katayama. Sensei Katayama needs no introduction to the Sogetsu community around the world, and his presence drew participants from all over the globe!  The Sogetsu community took part in our happiness, and we had so many wishes from across the world. Every composition reflected his joy and the mood of celebration and it was a  wonderful and masterful  display for us all.   Beginning on a festive note, with the celebratory colours of gold, he quickly and  deftly gave us 10 "jewels", with a wide variety of materials, vases and styles, interweaving the principles and techniques of Sogetsu as well. Do click on the link below for details of all the arrangements, with good pictures. Sensei Ken Katayama's online demonstration for the start of Chennai Sogetsu Branch - Google Photos Sharing some of the commen