FIRST ANNIVERSARY MEMORIAL FLOWERS FOR VICTIMS OF THE JAPANESE GREAT EARTHQUAKE AND TSUNAMI

On March 11, 2011, the unpresedented Japanese great earthquake and tsunami struck the northern part of Japan. It culminated in the loss of approximately 20,000 people's lives. The flowers I arranged are my humble tribute to all the victims. I also offer my sincerest condolences to victims of the tornados that devastated some areas of Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio on March 2, 2012. Pussy willow is a common early spring branch. It tells us hopes that come up from the cold dormacy of winter.

White chrysanthemum is a funeral flower that represents human dignity. The mass represents the spirits of the victims. The branches behind the flowers express ladders to guide them into Heaven

I arranged yellow garbera to cheer the victims up.

Condolences: The Tohoku-Pacific Ocean Earthquake

I would like to extend sincerest condolences and deepest sympathy to the victims and families of the Tohoku-Pacific Ocean Earthquake. I would like to dedicate my Ikebana flower arranging to them. I deeply respect all rescue workers and greatly appreciate the support from overseas. I hope they can find recovery means immediately. I have been receiving words and encouragement to the people of Japan from many American friends. I truly appreciate your kindness and thoughtful gestures.

I chose white chrysanthemums for them because they have specific meaning. White chrysanthemums are funeral flowers in Japan. Buddhist alters are covered with them in order to respect one's life. The scent of mums reminds me of buddhist temples and my family shrine. Chrysanthemums also represent Japan's royal family flowers and emblems. Some Japanese people craft a Bonsai's cascade style (kengai style) and dolls (kiku-ningyou) from them.

I added pink carnations to express sympathy to children and young people who lost their life. Many of the victims have not had funerals yet in the midst of the tragedy. I pray for the souls of them.

Peace. Naomi Ryokufu.

(Please click the left bar of University of Southern Maine's donation activities. You can help the victims through them.)

The Two Worlds

"The world is dark and this floating world is a dream "


A. Kurosawa -- Hidden Fortress--

Hyacinths & tulips

Photography: M.A. Killmeier

Floating style

Glickman Family Library 7th floor

Oil Painting Ikebana

Oil painting Ikebana

Ikebana Display @ Glickman Family Library, Portland

Ikebana Display @ Glickman Family Library, Portland

Ikebana Display in 2010: Glickman Family Library

This is the third year of Ikebana display at Glickman Family Library, 314 Forest Avenue, Portland ME.

7th floor Unum Great Reading Room in August.

Hope you enjoy them.

Spring branches: Flowering Quince

Tips to arrange: The lines of flowering quince are complex but the insert points of the branches are aligned from the right to the left of the frog. To do so, the arrangement becomes a serene atmosphere.

Irises

Pussy willow, Dogwood, Spider mum.

Ikebana lesson at Portland Adult Education: Fall 2009

Date: October 13, 2009
Place: Portland Arts & Technology High School, 196 Allen Ave. Portland
Time: Night
Schedule is subject to change. Please contact Portland Adult Education.(207)874-8155

2009 Ikebana Display @ Glickman Family Library, USM Portland Campus

IKEBANA IN MAINE

Alma's beautiful Ikebana.

Thank you very much for helping Ikebana exhibition.

Annual Ikebana display was held at University of Southern Maine Portland Campus Glickman Family Library, Unum Great Reading Room, 7th floor.
Dates: a month of July, 2009.
LAST YEAR'S event:http://ikebanainmaine.blogspot.com/2008_04_01_archive.html

http://ikebanainmaine.blogspot.com/2008_03_01_archive.html

Small Arrangement

Broad-Surface Arrangement