Hiroko Prado (back centre), president of Sogetsu Ikebana Sydney/NSW and Ikebana International Sydney at Ikebana International Sydney's Christmas function Source: Hiroko Prado
Ms Prado learnt the craft in Tokyo and taught it in Hong Kong and Singapore before moving to Sydney. According to Ms Prado, a certified teacher at Sogetsu school thinks that you can express yourself freely with flowers while respecting and valuing its tradition.
Sogetsu Australia is going to hold a exhibition "Sogetsu Ikebana Awakening" at the Royal Botanical Garden in Sydney this month, from the 4th to the 12th. There are free workshops and demonstrations on weekends.
In the audio, Ms Prado talks about the difference between Ikebana and Western flower arrangement, its upcoming exhibition, and the history of Ikebana in Australia.
Aussie Ikebana "legend"
Ikebana was brought to Australia by an Australian interpreter Norman James Sparnon, about 60 years ago. Mr Sparnon helped his American-born wife who couldn't speak Japanese learn Ikebana in Tokyo in 1940s. Then Mr Sparnon found himself getting into the craft. He learnt Ikebana at both Sogetsu and Ikenobou school and acquired the most senior rank as teacher at both schools.
After moving back to Australia in 1960s, Mr Sparnon actively spread Ikebana all over Australia and even brought it to New Zealand. Currently Sogetsu has its branch in every state and territory except Northern Territory in Australia and five branches in New Zealand.
Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement) by Hiroko Prado, president of Sogetsu Ikebana Sydney/NSW and Ikebana International Sydney. Source: Hiroko Prado
