Ikebana Workshop: Japanese Flower Arranging

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

Discover the timeless Japanese art of Ikebana, where flowers become far more than decoration. Through the thoughtful placement of each stem, branch and leaf, you'll learn to create elegant arrangements that celebrate simplicity, harmony and the natural beauty of the seasons.

Guided by one of Australia's most experienced and certified Ohara School Ikebana instructors, you'll create your own beautiful floral arrangement to take home while learning the principles behind one of Japan's most respected artistic traditions.

Unlike traditional Western flower arranging, Ikebana focuses on the relationship between each flower, branch, leaf and the surrounding space. Rather than creating abundant displays, you'll discover how line, balance, rhythm, proportion and negative space work together to create arrangements that are both visually striking and deeply expressive.

Working with carefully selected seasonal flowers and foliage, you'll explore why Ikebana has been practised for centuries as both an artistic discipline and a mindful creative practice. Whether you're passionate about flowers, Japanese culture, interior styling or simply looking for a relaxing and rewarding creative experience, this workshop offers a welcoming introduction to one of Japan's most enduring art forms.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Ikebana Workshop: Japanese Flower Arranging, you will have explored concepts and techniques such as:

• Create elegant Ohara-style Ikebana arrangements using seasonal flowers and foliage
• Apply the principles of line, balance, rhythm, proportion and negative space
• Select suitable containers and natural materials for different styles of arrangement
• Prepare and position flowers and branches to highlight their natural beauty
• Use a kenzan and traditional Ohara-style techniques to create balanced arrangements
• Develop the confidence to continue practising Ikebana at home using seasonal materials

Course content

What will be covered in this Ikebana Workshop: Japanese Flower Arranging?

During the workshop, participants will work with techniques and ideas such as:

• The history and philosophy of Ikebana
• The principles of the Ohara School of Ikebana
• Understanding line, balance, rhythm, proportion and negative space
• Selecting and preparing seasonal flowers, branches and foliage
• Traditional trimming, shaping and branch-bending techniques
• Using a kenzan and selecting appropriate containers
• Creating harmonious arrangements inspired by nature
• Caring for your arrangement to maximise its longevity
• Ideas for continuing your Ikebana practice at home

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

Intended audience

Who is this Ikebana Workshop: Japanese Flower Arranging for?

This workshop is perfect for anyone who enjoys flowers, gardening, Japanese culture, art, interior styling or mindful creative pursuits.

Whether you're looking to learn a new artistic skill, create beautiful floral arrangements for your home, or simply spend a relaxing day immersed in a centuries-old Japanese tradition, this workshop offers a welcoming and inspiring introduction to the elegant world of Ikebana.

No previous experience in floristry or flower arranging is required.

Course venue

Rozelle Campus

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

Course materials

What we provide

• A  container for your arrangement
• A kenzan (traditional flower holder) for use during the workshop
• Seasonal flowers, branches, and foliage
• All other materials required to complete your arrangement

What to bring to class

• Secateurs for cutting branches
• A small towel
• A bucket or sturdy container to transport your arrangement home
• A notebook and pen or tablet (optional)
• Closed-in shoes
• An apron (optional)

Please note the following:

• All flowers and materials are included in the workshop fee.
• Your completed Ikebana arrangement is yours to take home and enjoy.
• This workshop follows the principles of the Ohara School of Ikebana, one of Japan's most respected schools of flower arranging.