For those looking to indulge their senses this holiday season, the Ikenobo Ikebana Society Cebu Chapter has unveiled a captivating floral exhibit that brings centuries of Japanese tradition to life.
“Ikenobo: The Heart and Soul of Ikebana” opened today at SM J Mall, transforming the mall’s Atrium into a garden of artful blooms.
Ikebana — the Japanese art of flower arranging — traces its roots to the Ikenobo school, which began when priests near Kyoto created floral offerings at temples, nestled by ponds (or “ike”) and humble huts (or “bo”).
The name “Ikenobo” thus emerged, symbolizing a legacy where arranging flowers is considered an act of respect for nature and compassion for others.
This exhibit, open to the public until December 8, features exquisite floral artworks by Ikenobo Ikebana Society Cebu Chapter members.
Each arrangement tells a story of graceful simplicity, subtle balance, and deep cultural significance. The launch ceremony saw esteemed guests in attendance, including Maria Theresa Zosa, President of Ikenobo Ikebana Society Cebu Chapter, and Consul General Hideaki Matsuo of the Consulate General of Japan to Cebu.
Their presence highlighted the enduring resonance of this art form, celebrating Ikebana as a reflection of a shared human spirit that transcends borders.
Visitors can wander through the Atrium and admire the nuanced shapes, lines, and colors that bring these arrangements to life.
Far more than flower decoration, Ikebana invites viewers into a serene dialogue with nature — offering an elegant reprieve from the holiday rush, and reminding us all of the beauty and empathy that can be cultivated through art.
Take a moment to pause, reflect, and soak in the graceful world of “Ikenobo: The Heart and Soul of Ikebana” at SM J Mall’s Atrium this December. It’s a tranquil celebration of tradition, artistry, and the universal language of flowers.
CebuLifestyleChannel.ph