In the last post, I shared about the Dusky Thrushes that feed in a local ume tree orchard. This week, I’ve continued looking at the ume blossoms and their pollinators while challenging myself to 2D animation. (Bird motion was too daunting to begin with, so I am easing myself in with bees.)
In collaboration with Arley, we’ve created an instrumental soundtrack to fill your space with peaceful vibes. :)
Speaking of spring blossoms and new media, this month I’ve also stepped into the world of ikebana, also called kadō (華道), “the way of flowers." People who practice this traditional Japanese art form are invited to pay close attention to seasonal changes, to work with limited plant materials, and to design arrangements that embody the transience of life.
There are many schools of ikebana, each with its unique philosophy and style. The Sogetsu school in which I’ve enrolled was founded in 1927 and takes an avant-garde approach that encourages individual creativity and experimentation with unconventional materials beyond traditional flora. Sogetsu practitioners often engage in large-scale installations, blending ikebana with contemporary art.
It takes at least two years to learn the fundamentals of Sogetsu ikebana. I’ve begun by practicing simple moribana and nageire style arrangements (see below). The process is meditative. As I arrange each stem, leaf, and blossom, I find myself noticing details that I’ve never noticed before. I’m designing to see.
I like how the nageire style arrangement is shadowed on the back wall, making the shadow part of the composition! I wanted to zoom these pictures to see them better but my computer wouldn't do it for some reason. Arley's music is very calming and peaceful! Love you Emmy and Arley! (Grandma Susy)
Beautiful drawings, Emmy!☺️