Samurai Ikebana Studio
Be a Flower Warrior
Welcome to My Ikebana Studio
What is Ikebana?
Ikebana is Japanese floral art.
It began in sixth-century Japan, as offerings to Shinto nature spirits and to the Buddha.
Throughout the centuries it developed into a formal artform, practised initially by nobles and Samurai and, eventually, members of all classes.
Today, it is a contemplative art taught in countries around the world.
* Scroll down to read about the benefits of ikebana on mental and physical health in Other Resources.
What is a Flower Warrior?
We all face challenges in our everyday lives, so we need to develop courage, patience and concentration: a warrior spirit.
The Samurai did it through martial arts training, Zen meditation, calligraphy --- and ikebana!
Flower arranging increased their concentration, peace of mind and appreciation for nature.
It can do the same for you.
* Scroll down to read more about the connection between ikebana and martial arts in my blog article.
Who am I?
My name is George Rigby, and I am a certified ikebana teacher (3rd Grade) with Sogetsu Headquarters in Japan (and also a 4th Dan black belt in Shorijiryu karate dō*).
I have been practising ikebana for more than 20 years and teaching, in both English and French, since 2018.
My home studio is in Ottawa, Canada.
I would love to share my passion for ikebana with you at a workshop, in regular classes, or by creating a custom arrangement for your home, office or business.
You can see more of my work, as well as that of my students, on Instagram @samurai_ikebana
* Scroll down to read more about the connection between ikebana and martial arts in my blog article.
Classes in Sogetsu Ikebana
Become a flower warrior in training. Start practising ikebana by following the official Sogetsu curriculum, using the textbooks from Japan. Begin creating simple---and simply beautiful---arrangements from your very first lesson.
Registration is ongoing, which means you can start anytime, as students progress at their own pace.
Purchase a series of eight ($280) or four classes ($140) at a time.
Or take a sample class for $65, which includes a ceramic vessel and a kenzan (pin/floral frog), as well as all the flowers and branches you need.
Classes include all plant materials and use of vases and equipment in the Studio.
Flowers and branches are yours to take home.
And, when you've finished creating, you're invited to stay for tea and cookies with your classmates.
* Il me ferait plaisir de vous enseigner en français.
* Online classes also available ($240 for eight classes). Students use their own vessels, equipment and plant material.
* Scroll down to read about the benefits of ikebana on mental and physical health in Other Resources.
Introductory Workshops
Occasional ikebana workshops at the Studio are fun and informative.
At Introduction to Ikebana workshops ("moribana" or "nageire") learn about ikebana's origins and its main principles. Then see how a traditional arrangement is made and try your hand at creating your own.
Take your creation home with you in the new ceramic vessel provided.
At freestyle theme workshops, take a less structured approach to expressing yourself through flowers, incorporating ikebana principles. We may celebrate a season or a holiday or experiment with using anything from teacups to Japanese fans to create modern floral art.
Join a scheduled workshop, or let's work together and plan your own friends' night (or afternoon) out.
Scroll through the photo gallery to get a glimpse of past workshops.
+ Next workshops at the Studio in mid-June.
Look for dates and times to be announced here.
Custom Designs
An ikebana arrangement made specifically for you can create a unique environment for your clients and enhance your business image.
Your small or large scale event could be made even more memorable for everyone with ikebana as an integral part of the décor.
Check out the examples in the photo gallery.
So far, my ikebana has added a sense of beauty and tranquility to a wellness centre reception area, brought comfort at a celebration of life, and inspired participants and their families at a karate black belt ceremony.
Contact me to discuss approaches and pricing for adding a unique ikebana touch to your home, office or business.
Blog Article
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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IKEBANA IN THE NEWS
What is Ikebana?
An overview of the history and styles of ikebana, "The Japanese Art That's Making a Comeback."
Sogetsu Ikebana
Learn about the history and approach of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana on the Japanese headquarters website.
Mother's Day Ikebana
In "Capturing the art of Japanese ikebana for Mother's Day," The Globe and Mail highlights the benefits of ikebana in the modern age.
Holiday Ikebana
The Globe and Mail presents a refreshing, asymmetrical approach to winter holiday floral art.
"For a fresh holiday look, try the asymmetry, space, naturalism of Japan's ikebana"