Mindfulness through Ikebana: Spring Creations

PLEASE NOTE: This workshop will be conducted online via Zoom. To participate fully, you will need access to a device with internet, microphone and camera (such as a laptop, smartphone or tablet). Registrants will receive the viewing link by email on the day of the event. Please note that all times listed are New York time (ET).

In our busy world, the Japanese art of ikebana offers a moment of calm. Flower arrangement is an opportunity to practice mindfulness, connect with the natural world, and express your creativity. The Sogetsu school of ikebana emphasizes adaptability and self-expression, designed to be practiced by anyone, anywhere in the world. In this four-session course, you'll learn the fundamentals of Sogetsu-style ikebana, including how to select plant materials, basic techniques to create beautiful arrangements, and the philosophy behind the practice.

Lesson 1 (Tues., May 4, 6:30 – 7:30 pm EDT) introduces ikebana as a mindful approach to nature. Students will learn fundamental principles such as proportions, placement and focal point through the creation of a basic upright arrangement.

Lesson 2 (Tues., May 11, 6:30 – 7:30 pm EDT) explores how to make a slanted arrangement. Students will learn about balance and counterweight, the use of water, and positioning materials in a kenzan.

Lesson 3 (Tues., May 18, 6:30 – 7:30 pm EDT) focuses on an upright arrangement variation. Students will learn how to bend and shape materials and the importance of ma, or empty space.

Lesson 4 (Tues., May 25, 6:30 – 7:30 pm EDT) introduces an extended composition variation. Students will learn how to arrange a centerpiece ikebana style that can be appreciated from 180 degrees.

Instructor bio:
Renée Niño de Rivera, founder of Niño de Rivera Communications, Inc., has developed multicultural and international strategies for corporations, nonprofits and government entities. Her clients have included: Japan Foundation in Mexico, Banco Mexicano, Dupont, Volkswagen, The Hispanic Society of America, Cooper Union and Acciona in La Venta, Oaxaca. Since 2010 she has worked closely with local groups in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, on the development of a multidisciplinary approach to help cooperatives formed by groups of indigenous women artisans achieve sustainable businesses.

Trained as a clinical psychologist, as a post‐graduate she studied at the Universidad Autónoma de México and the University of Geneva, Switzerland. She is an Ikebana Sogetsu Sensei and previously taught at the Consulate General of Japan in New York City. She is a member of the Board of Advisers to The World Council of Peoples for the United Nations and a former Board Member of New York Women in Communications.

Tuition for 4 lessons: $120/$96 members, seniors & students.
Participants will receive digital reference materials including diagrams, instructions and examples.