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Ikebana Foundations: Eastern Aesthetics and Practice

Dive into the world of Ikebana, the refined Japanese art of flower arranging. In this class, you'll explore the principles that shape Eastern floral design by blending aesthetic theory with hands-on training.

Practice key classical forms and techniques while learning the underlying artistic philosophies that differentiate Ikebana from Western styles. Through practical exercises and thoughtful discussions, you'll develop a familiarity with Ikebana's spatial balance, asymmetry, and minimalism—all essential concepts for expanding your understanding of floral art.

This class counts as an elective in NYBG's Floral Design Certificate Program and is open to both passionate hobbyists and aspiring professionals at all skill levels.

Materials Information:
Price includes a $185 materials fee for plant materials and hard goods. Please bring a florist knife, wire cutter, scissors, pruners, a camera, and a box or bag to carry your work home. Alternatively, a Floral Tool Kit is available for purchase through the Registration Office. Please email ContinuingEd@nybg.org to inquire.

Schedule:

Every week on Thursday, starting on 03/19/26 and ending on 04/09/26 (excluding 04/02/26)

Times:

11:00am-04:00pm EDT

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Instructor:

Yiwei Zhang Yiwei Zhang

Yiwei Zhang

Yiwei Zhang (Kaylee) is a passionate practitioner of Ikenobo Ikebana. With the title of Ikenobo Second Grade Assistant Professor, rank #10, awarded by the Ikenobo School in Kyoto, Japan,she brings both knowledge and creative flair to every arrangement. Yiwei's expertise is further enriched by her Gardening and Horticulture: Sustainable Garden Design certificates from the New York Botanical Garden, providing her with a holistic understanding of plant materials. Her background in fine arts and early exposure to Chinese painting and philosophy have honed her artistic instincts, giving her a unique perspective in her Ikenobo practice. Combined with over a decade of creative production experience in fashion photography and advertisements, Yiwei approaches Ikebana with a fresh and innovative eye, bridging the traditional with the contemporary.

Beyond her personal artistic endeavors, Yiwei is deeply dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Ikebana in the New York area. She has played an instrumental role in organizing numerous Ikebana demonstrations, collaborating with esteemed practitioners such as Joseph Lam, Anna Nakada, Ingrid Luders, Manabu Noda, and Judith Hata. Her events have been hosted at prestigious venues including the Nippon Club, the New York Botanical Garden, and the Jay Heritage Center.

Yiwei's own Ikenobo arrangements have been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Blanc Gallery, and Harrison Meadows Country Club. She presented a solo Ikenobo demonstration at the Japanese American Association in New York City. Most recently, Yiwei designed and taught an engaging flower arrangement event-including a keynote presentation,demonstration, and workshop-for the 2025 Museum Mile Festival at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, attracting an enthusiastic audience of over 240 participants.

Currently, Yiwei serves as the 1st Vice President of the Ikebana International New York chapter,having previously held the role of Program Chair. She is also a board member of the Ikenobo California Pacific Chapter, continuing her efforts to foster the growth and appreciation of Ikebana in the U.S. and beyond.

Location:

NYBG, Watson Room 101
2900 Southern Blvd
Bronx, NY 10458

Session Number:

263FDN479

Price:

Price Non-Member (Includes Materials) : $530.00
Member (Includes Materials) : $509.00

Additional Sessions Available

There are currently no other sections available.