Ikebana, translated as “living flowers”,  is the ancient art of Japanese flower arranging,  a popular traditional art of Japan. When flowers are harmoniously arranged in a container, the arrangement evokes the whole of nature itself, and people’s relationship with nature. As an art form, it has artistic principles and creative philosophy.

Ikebana has a recorded history that goes back for more than 600 years. Ikebana’s beginnings are traced to the introduction of Buddhism to Japan in the 6th century when offerings of flowers were placed on the altar, and later in containers, in honor of Buddha. Over the centuries, ikebana evolved from the temple to the castle and, eventually, to the Japanese home. Ikebana is now studied, practiced, and taught throughout the world through international organizations who promote peace and friendship through mutual love of nature and flowers. Ikebana can be enjoyed in public, private, sacred and commercial spaces as well as in museums and gardens throughout the world.

In 1927, when everybody believed practicing ikebana meant following established forms, Sofu Teshigahara recognized ikebana as a creative art and founded the Sogetsu School. He proclaimed “Anyone can enjoy Sogetsu Ikebana anytime, anywhere, using any material. You can place Sogetsu Ikebana at your door, in your living room or on your kitchen table. It will suit any kind of space, Japanese or Western and enrich its atmosphere.” Sogetsu School Headquarters is located in the beautiful Akasaka area of Tokyo, Japan.

Phoenix Sogetsu Ikebana (PSI) is one of 120 Branches and Study Groups in 38 countries and regions of the world founded by teachers and students of Sogetsu Ikebana. PSI provides a base for members to exchange information, learn ikebana techniques, and promote ikebana to the greater Phoenix community.