The Palo Alto Art Center and Foundation are proud to present 2020 International Cultrual Exchange Week, April 09-12, 2020. This years theme, "Japanese Ceramics and the Way of Life," features Japanese ceramic arts, artists, and customs that highlight traditional practices and contemporary interpretations—demonstrating the importance of ceramics in Japanese lifestyle.
Ikebana originated approximately 1500 years ago as a highly symbolic offering of flowers on the Buddhist altar done exclusively by Buddhist priests. Over the centuries, ikebana evolved from formal altar arrangements into a cultural art form practiced by the samurai, using specific rules regarding composition and the combination of materials. By the late 19th century, ikebana was a widespread domestic art.
For the Japanese, ikebana is more than simply displaying flowers in a vase. Like the tea ceremony, ikebana is a disciplined art form that involves creating an inner accord with the world. For the artist and viewer alike, it is an opportunity for contemplation and for achieving a deeper closeness with nature.
The Ikebana workshop lead by Susan Okada of the Wafu School will be assisted by Thomas and Kathy Arakawa of Ararkawa Pottery of San Jose. This 3-hour workshop is a hands-on introduction to Wafu Kai ikebana. Students will learn about the proportions and positions of flower materials with respect to the container in the moribana style of arrangement. Flowers, vessel and tools will be provided.
Materials Fee : $25, collected at the beginning of of class.
Space is limited, please register now to save your spot.
No prior experience necessary. Adults 18+
ICEX 2020 is made possible in part by our generous sponsors:
Thank you for your support!
If you are interested in supporting this programming please contact Fanny Retsek, fanny.retsek@cityofpaloalto.org
The Palo Alto Art Center and Foundation are proud to present 2020 International Cultural Exchange Week, April 09-12, 2020. This years theme, "Japanese Ceramics and the Way of Life," features Japanese ceramic arts, artists, and customs that highlight traditional practices and contemporary interpretations—demonstrating the importance of ceramics in Japanese lifestyle.
Schedule of Events: