Ikebana – a Celebration
February 10th & 11th, 2024
15th Annual Ikebana Exhibit
EVENT
February 10th & 11th 10am - 4pm
(last admission at 3:30 pm)
The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix invites you to our 15th Annual Ikebana Exhibit Ikebana – a Celebration. Presented by Phoenix Sogetsu Ikebana.   
Ikebana is the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement. It is a practice that brings joy and renewal to those who partake in it, as it encourages the use of graceful lines and calming spaces to showcase the natural beauty of flowers.
The Sogetsu school of Ikebana takes this art form one step further by promoting its practice by anyone, regardless of location or materials. This inclusivity allows for a wider appreciation and understanding of the art of Ikebana, making it a truly universal form of self-expression and creativity.
Admission:
General $15 / $17 at Gate
Youth 6-17: $13 / $15 at Gate
Member $10 / $12 at Gate
Please note that there is no general admission on February 10th & 11th. General admission is included with event ticket purchase.
What to Expect
Ikebana - A Celebration is a spectacular event that brings together some of the most talented and creative Ikebana artists from our local community. The exhibition will feature over 50 stunning flower arrangements from 20 local artists, showcasing a wide range of styles and techniques. From traditional arrangements using natural branches and flowers, to more exotic works incorporating local desert and tropical flora, and even unconventional materials such as recycled plastics, metals, and fabrics, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.
As you wander the garden paths, you will be treated to a variety of Ikebana arrangements, including vase arrangements on rocks and pedestals, hanging styles in trees and shrubs, and free-standing architectural works. There will also be seating provided for viewing larger installations at the Tea and Gift Shop and the Pavilion overlooking the waterfall.
In addition to the exhibition, the artists will be hosting an information booth where they will be happy to share more about their art and how to become involved in the local Ikebana community. And for those who are interested in trying their hand at Ikebana, there will be a "Make and Take Mini Ikebana" activity where you can learn the basics from artists and teachers and create your own small arrangement using live branches and fresh flowers. For just $10, you'll receive instructions, a mini demonstration, a vase, flowers, and a photo opportunity.
To further enhance your experience, there will also be a Japanese goods market offering authentic Japanese items for purchase. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Ikebana and discover the beauty and artistry of this ancient practice.   
Event Schedule
Enjoy demonstrations throughout the day! Most included with admission.
Activities
​
​
All Day (10am - 4 pm): Ikebana Information Booth
By Phoenix Sogetsu Ikebana. Learn about Ikebana, lessons, clubs, exhibitions, or partake in their scavenger hunt!
All Day (10am - 4 pm): Vendors' Booth
-
Ikebana Vase Booth by Ping Wei
-
Ikebana Art Photography & Art Booth by Larry Brecker
10am - 12pm, 1pm - 3pm: Make and Take Ikebana Workshop
Additional $10, cash and card accepted. Timed tickets scheduled every 30 minutes   
Ticket includes instruction, mini demonstration, vase, flowers and a photo opportunity.
​
10am - 3pm: Rohoen Market
​Enjoy hot tea and sweets from our Gift Shop
​
1pm - 3pm: Origami Lesson
Additional $5, cash and card accepted. Timed tickets scheduled every 15 minutes   
Learn the ancient Japanese art of creating objects out of paper. The $5 fee includes instruction and origami paper to make cranes, boxes and other simple designs.
​
Programming
​
Saturday, February 10th
-
11am: Live Group Ikebana Demonstration by Carol Brecker
-
​​​Achieving Artistic Expression in Sogetsu Ikebana.
-
-
12:30pm: Cello solo performance by Leo Kubota​
-
1:30pm: Live Group Ikebana Demonstration by Carol Brecker
-
Celebrating Sogetsu Ikebana.
-
-
3:00pm: Violin solo performance by Ami Siejak
​
Sunday, February 11th
-
11am: Live Ikebana Demonstration by Ping Wei
-
The Art of Sogetsu Ikebana.
-
-
12:30pm: Cello solo performance by Leo Kubota
-
​​​Achieving Artistic Expression in Sogetsu Ikebana.
-
-
1:30pm: Live Ikebana Demonstration by Sandy Ehler
-
The Art of Sogetsu Ikebana.
-
-
3:00pm: Violin solo performance by Ami Siejak
​
​