May 24, 2026

It rained that day, but it wasn't a downpour; it was a nice, cool rain that the plants appreciated. There were six of us in total (two couldn't make it), and we had a wonderful time. Everyone was very enthusiastic and seemed unable to wait to arrange their flowers. Each person brought 2-5 containers and seemed to be enjoying themselves while arranging their flowers.

This lesson was focused on "Free Style." Free Style is one of the many forms within the Ikenobo school; it is a highly popular style devised by the current Headmaster, Sen'ei Ikenobo, in response to changes in Japanese lifestyles and the environment. It can take both natural or unnatural forms. There are no fixed rules for freestyle; it depends on the combination of materials and where it will be displayed. The most important thing is to become one with the plants and enjoy the process of arranging them.

Thank you to all the participants for a wonderful time. Thank you very much, Junko Onuma, for the beautiful photos, and thank you very much, Tomoko Taniguchi, for the delicious matcha. I hope you all have a great summer.

Suzumi Adams