Inspiring work in exotic patterns

Creativity was at its best at Kusuma Sourabha, an Ikebana exhibition held by the Sogetsu School of Ikebana at the Golden Jubilee Hall, Lalbagh recently. The proceeds of the events will go to ‘Margadarshi’, a home for the physically- challenged girls and women, and ‘Vimochana’, an organisation working for the rights of women.

The works, some of which were theme-based, attracted a number of visitors. While some were based on the five elements of nature, others adopted the freestyle method. Some of them even used musical instruments as part of the creation.

About the exhibition, Namitha Suresh, director of  Sogetsu School of Ikebana, said, “With these exhibits, we hope to rekindle the interest in Ikebana. We especially want youngsters to know about this art form, because we find a decreasing interest among them.” Recalling that she had attended a similar exhibition in Delhi recently, Namitha added, “When I visited the exhibition, I decided that we must have a similar one in the City. Putting up this show goes to show that dreams do come true.”

Appreciating the creative work, Tadeshi Hasegawa, vice-consul, Consulate of Japan, Bangalore, said, “This is a great platform for cultural exchange. I hope this strengthens the relationship of the two countries. There are many Ikebana schools which follow different styles.” 

   Leela Venkatadri, the deputy director of Sogetsu School of Ikebana and a participant, said, “When we’re putting together a piece of work, we use every available material. What others consider waste turns out to be something useful for us.”

She added, “Ikebana gives me a lot of peace of mind and is also a diversion from the routine. This is like pursuing any other hobby. A lot of patience is required to see the whole design through.” Pointing to her works, Leela said, “When I was passing by someone’s house, I spotted the creepers in the garden.

I requested for it and have used them in my work. That’s the same case with my other creations as well. As soon as I spot something that I can put to use, I make an effort to get the materials.” The visitors, who were trickling in on the first day of the exhibition, were an impressed lot. “Although the creations appear simple, there is so much work that goes into putting it together.

I’m an artiste myself and it’s wonderful to see how waste has been made into wealth,” said Radha, a visitor. Sujata, who is into Ikebana said, “Although I couldn’t participate in this exhibition myself, I have come to see the work of others. They are just excellent. It’s hard to pick the best one.”