Ikebana Masterclass: Japanese Flower Arranging

What you'll learn

Experience the beauty, balance, and mindfulness of Ikebana with our floristry short courses in Sydney!

Discover the timeless beauty of Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging, in this immersive and inspiring workshop. Guided by one of Australia's most experienced and certified Ohara School Ikebana instructors, you'll explore a creative practice that combines artistry, mindfulness, and a deep appreciation of nature.

More than simply arranging flowers, Ikebana is a contemplative art form that seeks harmony between materials, space, seasonality, and the surrounding environment. Rooted in centuries of Japanese tradition, it encourages us to slow down, observe the natural world, and express beauty through simplicity and balance.

Through demonstration and guided practice, you'll learn the elegant principles of Ohara-style Ikebana while creating your own arrangements using seasonal flowers, branches, and foliage. As you explore line, rhythm, form, and negative space, you'll discover how even the simplest materials can create a powerful visual impact.

Whether you're drawn to Japanese culture, floral design, mindful creativity, or simply looking for a peaceful and rewarding artistic experience, this workshop offers a welcoming introduction to one of Japan's most enduring artistic traditions.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Ikebana Masterclass, you will have explored concepts and techniques such as:

• Applying the principles of Ohara-style Ikebana to create harmonious arrangements
• Understanding the role of line, balance, proportion, and space in Ikebana design
• Selecting appropriate vessels and materials for different styles of arrangement
• Positioning flowers and branches to reflect their natural form and relationships
• Using seasonal materials to create expressive and meaningful compositions
• Applying Ikebana as a mindful and creative practice in everyday life

Course content

During this Ikebana Masterclass, participants will work with techniques and ideas such as:

• Introduction to the history and philosophy of Ikebana
• Understanding the principles of Ohara-style Ikebana
• Using line, space, balance, and flow to create harmonious arrangements
• Selecting and preparing flowers, stems, branches, and foliage
• Traditional trimming and shaping techniques, including branch bending
• Working with a Kenzan and choosing suitable vessels
• Creating focal points and visual balance with minimal materials
• Integrating Ikebana into the home as a form of artistic and mindful expression
• Caring for arrangements to maximise their longevity

Content may vary slightly depending on class pace, participant interests, and instructor approach.

Intended audience

Who is this Ikebana Masterclass: Japanese Flower Arranging for?

This workshop is ideal for beginners as well as those with an interest in floral design, Japanese culture, mindfulness, art, or creative self-expression.

No previous experience in floristry or Ikebana is required.

Course materials

What we provide

• A container for your flowers, leaves, and branches
• A Kenzan (the base used to support your arrangement)
• Seasonal flowers, stems, and branches appropriate to the time of year

What to bring to class

• Tablet OR pen and notepad for taking notes
• Secateurs for cutting branches
• A small towel
• A bucket for transporting your arrangement home
• Closed-in shoes
• An apron (optional)

Course venue

Rozelle Campus

2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039 (corner of Gordon St & Victoria Rd on the grounds of St. Joseph's Church)