Text and Photos by Marinel Peroy
As many of us already know, the country of Japan has always been abundant with its traditions, interesting enigmatic arts and culture manifested in their crafts. Ikebana, flourishing as a Japanese art of arranging flowers, signifies more than its aesthetics — serving as a meaningful craft embedded with balance, harmony, and beauty. Having the platform to showcase this rich cultural heritage of Japan, the Ikenobo Ikebana Society of Manila No. 67 has organized a three-day Joyful Christmas Ikebana: Exhibit & Demo at Book Nook, SM Aura, Taguig City.
For this year, Ikebana showcases distinctive features that make them such a versatile and widely appreciated form of artistic expression, including presidential arrangements and Christmas-themed displays.
During his speech, the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines’ First Secretary and Director of the Japan Information and Culture Center Mr. Shigehiro MATSUDA expresses how the exquisite artistry and beautiful arrangements of Ikebana capture the essence of the Christmas season.
“We believe in the power of art to connect hearts and bridge generations and culture. This event not only celebrates the beauty of Ikebana but also serves as a bridge that connects our cultures and strengthens the bonds of friendship between our nations,” Director Matsuda said.
Matsuda also wishes that everyone will embrace the spirit of Ikebana, sharing love, compassion and goodwill; not just this holiday season but always. Highlighting its confluent significance in Tagalog words, “Gaya ng Ikebana, bagama’t iba-iba ng hugis at hulma, ‘pag nagsama-sama ay nakakabuo pa rin ng isang magandang obra,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Romeo Balderrama Jr. President of Ikenobo Ikebana Society of Manila, eloquently portrays Ikebana not merely as art, but as a profound engagement of the senses which intertwines with one’s way of life. Shedding light on its enduring values of modesty, humility, perseverance, and generosity, Balderrama Jr. emphasizes the imperative to “let the beauty of nature inspire the festive spirit” this year.
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Speaking with THEPHILBIZNEWS, one of the exhibitors and Rank 12: Sokakyo Ms. Yvette Poe shares that doing Ikebana is considered as her “hobby for life.” As a Professor of Ikebana (3rd Grade), Poe takes pride in emphasizing that all materials used are natural and are not synthetic.
From precise measurements to intricate details such as twigs, flowers, and the placement of Christmas balls, her meticulous conceptualization over a week culminated in a successfully crafted and stunning Ikebana masterpiece. Truly, Poe’s distinctive approach to blending traditional and contemporary styles complimented the symbolic elements toward the evocative exhibition of divinity.
For his part, SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Operations Engr. Bien Mateo expresses gratitude to Ikenobo Ikebana Society of Manila No. 67 for choosing SM as its home for 2023.
“We are very honored to be an avenue to bring this art closer to our mall-goers and customers, especially our senior citizens. At SM Cares, we believe that our Lolos and Lolas can be active and productive members of society,” he said.
“We hope that in the following years, we will continue to host the Ikebana in all our malls nationwide,” Mateo added.
The art of Ikebana is indeed a heartfelt expression of gratitude, whereas I have been given the chance to witness this utsukushii (美しい / うつくしい / beautiful) ancient tradition and profound connection to nature — now weaving its elegance into the tapestry this Christmas season with all of us. Arigatou gozaimasu to Ikenobo Ikebana Society of Manila No. 67, Embassy of Japan in Manila, and SM Cares for the opportunity to experience and feel the beauty of Japan in the country.
