World Ikebana Day marked with avant-garde floral exhibition in Hyderabad

Ikebana International Hyderabad Chapter #250 celebrated World Ikebana Day by organising an exhibition titled “Avant-Garde Ikebana Expressions” at ITC Kakatiya in Begumpet, Hyderabad, on Saturday, June 6.

Ikebana is the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement. Unlike conventional floral decoration, which often focuses on displaying as many flowers as possible, Ikebana emphasises balance, harmony, simplicity and the relationship between nature and the arranger. The word Ikebana roughly translates to ‘making flowers alive’ or ‘giving life to flowers’. 

The avant-garde style of Ikebana traces its origins to the aftermath of World War II. It was developed by Houn Ohara, the third Headmaster of the Ohara School of Ikebana, following the bombing of Hiroshima. The style encourages innovation and the use of unconventional materials while retaining a deep connection with nature.

As part of the exhibition, 25 members of the Hyderabad Chapter showcased 25 floral arrangements incorporating various styles of the Ohara School. The displays featured a range of containers and materials, including stone, wood, metal and ceramics, combined with flowers, foliage and fruits to create distinctive artistic compositions.