How to Learn Ikebana
- 1). To find a class near you, check with the international Ikebana website (see resources) for a local chapter. Many Ikebana teachers are members of this organization and conduct classes in their homes or at public places such as libraries and art museums.Local craft stores and your nearby florist may also have referrals for an experienced teacher.
- 2). You can also locate a teacher by inquiring at a nearby Asian supermarket or ethnic grocery store. Most have bulletin boards with goods and services for sale. Another source of instruction is an instructional DVD (see resources for ordering information) that details the process step by step. This is also helpful to have for continuing students.
- 3). Class rates vary, depending on the teacher’s expertise and experience, but in Phoenix, for instance, a weekly Ikebana class is $20, which includes materials. Most classes are self-paced, with students advancing to more complicated techniques as they learn.
- 4). Learn more about the history of Ikebana by attending one of the trade organization’s international conventions, held in cities around the globe. Planning to travel to Japan? Schedule a visit to the birthplace of Ikenobo, the oldest Ikebana school, located in Kyoto.
- 5). Keep your digital camera handy and take pictures of natural flora and fauna, to develop and awareness of placement and aesthetic.
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