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Day 4 - Iemoto Akane demonstrates and we say sayonara Feb 29th

We were now winding down to the grand finale of the last three days.

We awaited the demonstration by our Iemoto Akane, at the Chinmaya hall, walking distance from the IIC. Filled with energy, laughter and fellowship, the Chennai Study Group had bonded once again.  We were missing all our other member friends who could not make this trip, and here's hoping these blog posts make them feel that they were there as well.

Mrs Veena Dass welcomed the gathering, and we started a bit late due to the late arrival of Mrs Ansari.  The Ambassador gave a short speech appreciating the efforts of the Sogetsu school to spread Japanese art, and bring understanding between our peoples.

Mrs Ansari also spoke briefly about her encounters with Ikebana.

We started with a short movie from the Sogetsu school about the founding Iemoto Sofu, and the subsequent movements of the school under Kasumi and Hiroshi.  It was a good time to reflect on the history of the school.  Made one wonder as to whether the Delhi chapter could have put together a photo exhibition showcasing their fifty years?

Anyway, we were all set to welcome Iemoto. Malathi sensei had this to say, "Akane's Demonstration was too authentic for words. She appeared on the stage in traditional attire. Her medium sized arrangements were executed with ease and refinement. Materials were handled with grace and gentleness and her narration fitted to the piece she was arranging. Both Japanese and Indian moods were seen. For me, the final large arrangement was a depiction of the natural landscape seen on the way to the airport, brown, dark green, light green and now and then the red tulip tree in season. The greens dominated, with a little brown and then a sudden splash of red. The Indian natural landscape was observed in great detail and rendered with much confidence and expertise." Sayonara at the Golf Club The singer sang some golden oldies, and we were in a lovely mellow mood as we made our way back to the coach, after a hearty dinner.

The next day, we returned to Chennai, with some confusions in the airport as our luggage was over weight, having picked up kenzans and other assorted things in Delhi!

A memorable four days indeed for all of us who made the trip.

As the Iemoto said, maybe we will meet again at Tokyo, when Sogetsu celebrates its 90th anniversary next year?!
Posted by Sogetsu at 7:56 PM No comments: Labels: Delhi Sogetsu 50th anniversary celebrations

Day 4 - Chris Lim demonstrates 
The Chennai Study Group was a relaxed bunch this morning, and the mood of anticipation was quite different from the nervous energy of the previous morning.

We looked forward to Singapore's Christopher Lim's demonstration, and he did not disappoint with drama, speed and creative flair.

After eleven large compositions, the stage was cleared for the final large stage piece.

We witnessed the creation of such a large piece from the placing of the white rectangles to the manipulation of the large branch material, their wiring and stabilising and the placement of the flowers and fresh material. As Sensei Meenakshi said, "He worked in a systematic manner showcasing how one can keep  audience  alive and involved. The use of bright material adds to it. The arrangement i loved was the one with the cane mats."

Sensei Prerana had this to say, "This was also a show which can reach out to a diverse audience who does not understand Ikebana. And he was a master at that.I really liked some of his arrangements a lot."

Thank you Chris Lim and let us hope we see you again!

Posted by Sogetsu at 6:18 PM 5 comments: