From the president

Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, has been dear to my heart through much of my life.

As the president of Ikebana International Seattle Chapter, I would like to promote this traditional art in the local community.  I.I. is a worldwide non-profit cultural organization and is open to all persons interested in the art of Ikebana.  It provides an opportunity for people to learn flower arranging, to participate in exhibitions and to socialize with others from all the various schools of Ikebana. 

Seattle Chapter includes members from the following Ikebana schools:  Hua Yuan, Ichiyo, Ikenobo, Koenshu, Koryu, Ohara, Ryusei-Ha, Saga Goryu, Senke, Senke Seishin, Shofu-Ryu, Shofu-Kadokai, Sogetsu, Wafu and Yushoryu.  Some of the schools focus on classic styles, others are contemporary and creative.  Each school is different, but shares its history, inspiration, philosophy, style and techniques.  There are teachers in the different schools available throughout the Greater Seattle area.

Members of I.I. participate in world conventions, regional conferences and chapter meetings.  Our activities include demonstration of flower arranging, exhibitions, lectures/programs on related arts, tours, and workshops where one can study Ikebana under the direction of various school Masters.  Our public exhibitions include Northwest Flower and Garden Show in Feb, Cherry Blossom Festival in April, Annual Exhibition in May and Aki Matsuri in Sept.  Each local school also hold their own exhibitions.  Our members voluntarily place ikebana arrangements at the Seattle Art Museum and the Seattle Asian Art Museum year round.

On behalf of Seattle Chapter, I welcome you to join our chapter and become one of our members.

Friendship through Flowers
Shirley Hill
President