April 5th, 2025 Divided Shoka Shimputai Workshop with Michele Nguyen
On April 5th, at the Zerio home, we held our divided Shoka Shimputai workshop. This event marked a significant moment for Michele Nguyen, who not only led the workshop but was also presented with her teacher’s certificate by Linnea Storm. The group had the pleasure of welcoming a new member, Noriko Gougler, who was greeted with a new member information packet and basic tools as a gift.
Michele Nguyen began her lecture with an engaging history lesson on the Shoka Shimputai Divided arrangement. First introduced by the 45th headmaster, Sen’ei Ikenobo, in 1977, this arrangement was a response to societal changes and the need for a modern form of Shoka that would be more suitable for contemporary tastes. As the availability of floral materials from Western countries increased and more greenhouses emerged, florals previously considered out of season became accessible. Despite this, it remains recommended to use flowers and plants that are in season, emphasizing the natural beauty and inner nature of plants.
During the lecture, Michele detailed the unique aspects of Shoka Shimputai Divided. The arrangement utilizes a maximum of three materials and consists of two groups that must be separated in the kenzan but positioned across from each other, unlike the divided Shofutai where one group is slightly behind the other. Essential to the arrangement are the Shu (main material) and Yo (secondary or supporting material), with the option to add Ashirai as needed. Each group can have a Shu, Yo, and Ashirai, or Shu in one group and Yo in the other, or any other combination preferred. The Yo and Ashirai should support but not overwhelm the Shu, and a clear Mizugiwa must be present in both groups.
The Shu and Yo together should create a feeling of tension, which can be achieved through contrast, color, or both. Asymmetry plays a crucial role in the arrangement; without asymmetry, there is no tension and no balance. The materials should complement, not compete with each other, ensuring harmony and elegance in the final creation.
The workshop concluded with participants feeling enriched and inspired by Michele’s insights. The day underscored the importance of tradition while embracing the possibilities of modern innovation in ikebana.
Overall, the event was a beautiful blend of learning, celebration, and community building, leaving attendees eager for the next gathering.
