Ikebana is the art of Japanese floral arranging, which celebrates the seasons and echoes natural landscapes with a stunning, minimalist aesthetic.
On Friday, May 30, artist E-Ling Lou of the renowned Ohara School of Ikebana will demonstrate the art of ikebana by creating floral arrangements using spring flowers and delicate branches collected from the Arboretum’s grounds. Lou will share techniques, explain important symbolism, and discuss the use of nature across Japanese art forms.
This event is free and included in Arboretum general admission.
The Spring Ikebana Demonstration will take place against the backdrop of the Arboretum’s Temperate Asia Collection on the Arboretum’s East Side, featuring trees and shrubs native to Japan, Korea, and China.
The demonstration is timed to celebrate the unveiling of a temporary art installation as part of the Waves of DuPage public art project. Get a first look at the beautiful Arboretum scene captured in the famous Japanese ukiyo-e style by artist Rich Lo, in connection with the College of DuPage’s summer exhibition, “Hokusai and Ukiyo-e: The Floating World, Artworks from the Chiossone Collection.” Featuring works from Japan’s Edo period (1600–1868), the exhibition includes Hokusai’s iconic The Great Wave off Kanagawa, on view through Sunday, September 21.
Limited parking is available at Parking Lot 18. We recommend parking in Parking Lot 1 and enjoying a 6-minute walk to the event location. Dress for the weather.
