5th Ikenobo Flower Arrangement Exhibition

A three-day Ikenobo flower arrangement exhibition is organised by Ikenobo Malaysia Floral Art Study Group at the Perak Hakka Association, Jalan Bendahara, Ipoh. Today is the last day of the exhibition.

Entering the premises, one is greeted by a “Summer Harmony” arrangement, where the flowers are blooming, winds blowing and birds chirping. It was a combined effort by four members of the study group.

Another elaborate arrangement is “Shiny Black Gold”, inspired by a production of Perak Society of Performing Arts (PSPA). The arrangement explored the many struggles and sacrifices of the tin mining industry in Perak. It also represented a profound expression in those days where tin was referred to as “black gold”. The arrangers hoped that memory of the past, as well as aspiration towards a better future for Ipoh are reflected in the arrangement.

I wouldn’t claim that I know anything about this traditional Japanese flower arrangement, with a history that dates back 600 years ago, but it was something interesting to me. Everything looked “nice” to me and that’s about it. And sad to say, that no matter how beautiful an arrangement looks, it could only last one week.

Ikenobo is a minimalist Ikebana style, where the arranger tries to use the least number of flowers, leaves and branches in his or her arrangement. I was surprised to discover that quite a number of men indulge in this hobby.

Those interested to learn Ikenobo can get in touch with Ikenobo Malaysia (Ipoh) at 6B, Lorong Hang Tuah, 30350 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia. Tel: 05-2551198 (Mon – Fri, 9am – 6pm). Five types of flower arrangements are taught, from the most basic Moribana to Shoka, Rikka, Nageibana and Freestyle. Students begin from elementary course, where the fee is RM288 for 14 classes.

Event: 5th Ikenobo Flower Arrangement Exhibition
Venue: Perak Hakka Association, Jalan Bendahara, Ipoh.
Date: 26th – 28th July, 2013
Time: 10am – 8pm

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