| Courses
Course
name: Ikebana - The Japanese Art of Flower Arrangement
Presenter: Valeria
Raso Matsumoto |
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Course
Description
Ikebana is steeped in the Zen philosophy of developing a closeness and communication between Nature and ourselves. In human history never have we been so far from Nature as now, so unable to take advantage of the peace and harmony that it can offer us. When one practices Ikebana one becomes quiet. Ikebana teaches you to live "in the moment" and to appreciate things in Nature that previously were unnoticed or seemed insignificant. During the practice of Ikebana, one is silent; even the teacher speaks little. Ikebana is much more than mere floral decoration. Its heart is the beauty resulting from color combinations, natural shapes, graceful lines, empty spaces and the meaning latent in the total form of the arrangement. The unique healing quality of Ikebana is that it uses asymmetric forms as opposed to emphasizing symmetry. The imaging in the mind of these asymmetric designs, combined with the hands-on process of creating flower forms and lines, helps to induce healthy brain activity. For this reason, Ikebana has long been practiced by Japanese from all walks of life, to help centre the mind and reduce the tension of the day. As is true of other arts, it is necessary to master certain rules and fundamental techniques, but even a beginner can enjoy the beauty of the branches and flowers, and the deep contact that working with these elements gives with Nature. |
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Dates and Time
December through March by appointment
Venue
“Hall of Light” at Creativity Community
Registration
phone: 9442992827 or 262-3585
e-mail : kenval@auroville.org.in |
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Presenter
Bio
After getting a degree in Psychology in Italy, Valeria sailed a yacht around the world for 8 years with her Japanese husband. She lived in Japan for 14 years and studied Ikebana for 10 years at the Sogetsu School where she was awarded a teacher's degree. Valeria is originally Italian but she professes a deeper identification with the Japanese culture. She lives in Auroville where she gives classes on
Ikebana all year round. |
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