"Ikebana" is a Japanese style of floral design - a sculptural art form in which nature and human creativity come together to create artistic flower arrangements. These designs not only include flowers but emphasize other parts of plants — branches, stems and leaves. Shape, line and form are relevant to the artistic expression of the design.

The basic Ikebana principles of Japanese floral design will include determining the lengths and amount of branches and flowers, learning the angles for placing the materials, and understanding types of contrasts.

For this beginners workshop, we will create two different arrangements using branches, various greens and flowers. You'll learn to create a structured design using the basic principles of Ikebana and a free-style design with creative uses of the greenery and flowers. All materials are included, but you are encouraged to bring garden pruners and/or regular scissors if you have them.

WHEN: May 24, 2025 2-5 PM

WHERE: Verge Center for the Arts

About the Instructor

Helen Tashima was first inspired by Ikebana at 10 years of age when she saw an amazing arrangement made by her mother. She did not pursue this interest until much later as an adult, when at a Davis Flower Arrangers meeting, people were encouraged to make arrangements at the Yolo County Fair. She then joined a Sogetsu Ikebana class taught by Mr. Shuko Kobayashi in 1991 in Sacramento and after he returned, she continued studying with Kika Shibata Sensei in 2001 and now coordinates her Ikebana class in Sacramento. She is also treasurer of the Sacramento Chapter of Ikebana International. She has taught Ikebana workshops in the central valley at the Jan Ken Po children's summer school and for children at the CA Museum's summer program. Helen enjoys Ikebana because it is an art form that has endless possibilities for creative uses of materials.

Community Standards

In order to create a safe and encouraging environment for creativity, we ask that all attendees comply with Verge’s non-discrimination policy which prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment based on race, color, gender, gender identity/expression, age, physical or mental disability, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or any other consideration made unlawful by the state or local laws. We also ask that everyone contribute positively to a safe and comfortable environment for all attendees. We reserve the right to refuse entry to anyone who does not abide by our community standards stated above.

Cancellation and Refunds Policy

Verge Center for the Arts reserves the right to cancel classes, to change instructors, and to make other changes that may become necessary to ensure a quality experience for participants. In the event that a class is canceled, we will contact all registrants and offer the option of transferring to another available session, or receiving a full refund.

If a participant wishes to withdraw from a class, they must do so in writing at least seven days prior to the first class meeting to receive a full refund, less a $25 processing fee. Withdrawals occurring within seven days prior to the first class meeting will receive a refund of 50% of the total class fee or may transfer to a class of equal or lesser value. Participants are only eligible for one transfer per registration and must get it approved by Verge staff. No refunds or transfers are given to withdrawals that occur 24 hours or less before the class begins. Membership fees are non-refundable. Please note we are unable to issue cash refunds.

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Ikebana: The Art of Japanese Flower Arranging