On the occasion of the Japanese Culture Days, 14 Japanese Ikebana flower arrangements were demonstrated in Chisinau during a creative workshop. "Ikebana is part of our tradition and we want to show the Moldovans the beauty of these floral arrangements," Masanobu Yoshii, Japan's Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, told IPN.
“We have traditional culture and modern culture. Ikebana is part of the traditional culture. Next year the Olympic Games will be held in Japan and, through Ikebana, that we brought to Chisinau today, we want to show the hospitality of the Japanese people," said Masanobu Yoshii.
The Japanese ambassador has also said he hopes the Moldovans will see in today’s demonstration the spiritual part of the Japanese culture. "The floral arrangement is beautiful, but I would like Moldovans to understand the harmony between space and nature and its simplicity," specified the Japanese ambassador. The Japanese diplomat has mentioned that Ikebana arrangements appeared in the 6th century and, with much effort, the flower arrangement technique has been preserved.
The one who demonstrated the Ikebana flower arrangement technique was Professor Hirotaka Furukawa, who represents the Ikenobo school, the oldest school in Japan. "I am part of a school with a 550-year-old tradition in Ikebana. I want to bring joy through these arrangements and show you the beauty of Japanese traditions," mentioned Hirotaka Furukawa.
Angela Lobastov, head of the East-European branch of the Ikebana Ikenobo Institute, has said during the event that, thanks to the presence and guidance of Japanese teachers, Ikebana art has made great progress in the Republic of Moldova. "We regularly organise Ikebana courses in Chisinau, and at the end the students receive diplomas," said Angela Lobastov.
The events within the framework of the Japanese Culture Days will continue with an exhibition by Ikebana Ikenobo, from October 3 to 6, in the lobby of the Jolly Alon Hotel and with two other creative workshops.
