Ohara Ikebana Demonstration in Support of Japan
On April 28, 2011, the Ohara School of Ikebana in Ottawa held a demonstration in support of Japan earthquake relief in the auditorium of the Embassy of Japan. The event was organized by Ms. Nancy MacDonald, President of the Ottawa Chapter of the Ohara School, and Mr. Derek Kitchen, Vice-President of the Ottawa Chapter of the Ohara School.
Minister Kouji Abe attended the demonstration to express deep appreciation to the organizers and participants for their support and solidarity for the people of Japan. He also spoke of the gradual progress that is being made to establish a new normalcy in Japan. He noted that Ikebana reminds us all of the delicate balance between nature and humankind.
Mr. Mitsugi Kikuchi, Sub Grand Master of the Ohara School, created seven different Ikebana arrangements for the audience which consisted of over seventy people.
Of the seven arrangements, there were one for each season, one small arrangement using a modern technique with sunflowers, one Bunjin arrangement using a Sumac tree and Cymbidium orchids, and one Rimpa arrangement representing all four seasons together.
The two-hour event was a rare opportunity to see an excellent Ikebana demonstration while also raising funds for those who are still suffering in Japan. All admission fees collected will go to the Japanese Red Cross Society.
The Ohara School also held a fundraising workshop led by Grace Furuya on April 14.
|
