Ikebana in Bend: the First Signs of Spring

Crocus and daffodil are just around the corner.

The earliest spring blossoms may be making an entrance right around the date of our next lesson on Sunday, February 22, 1-3 pm. Class size is limited, and January was sold out, so if you are hoping to join us, be sure and register early at the links above.

Students at work.

January marked the inaugural Ikebana Is Back in Bend lesson, and it was a great success. The room was filled with a mix of returning students and enthusiastic newcomers, all bringing curiosity, focus, and a shared love of ikebana. It felt wonderful to be practicing together again.

Variation 3 with snapdragon, camellia and a touch of eucalyptus.

We studied Upright Style Moribana, Variation No. 3, from the Sogetsu 1/2 textbook. Students chose between camellia or eucalyptus for shin and soe, snapdragon or gerber daisy for the hikae. As always, I reminded the class that each variation, each arrangement, is really just a way of getting to know the materials. No matter how often one has practiced ikebana, or how familiar the exercise or combination of branches and flowers, there's always something surprising to be found.

Together yet each in a world of their own.

I was reminded of that myself with a small but satisfying snapdragon maneuver. I’d purchased ours at the Portland Flower Market almost a week ahead, and despite being stored in a cool garage, the night before class they were looking a little sad and droopy. Fortunately, I remembered a simple trick. I snipped the stems at an angle, bound them tightly with paper, and placed them in fresh, cool water. By morning, they had snapped to attention—quite literally.

A snug swaddle will do wonders.

Moments like these are part of what makes ikebana such a rich and sustaining practice. It's technical, yes, but also deeply alive to change and growth. I hope you’ll join us for the next lesson. Whether you’re continuing a long-standing practice or just beginning, there's always something new to discover.