Niwaki Workshops: Ikebana

Japanese-inspired flower arranging with a contemporary twist

More Information

Join us for hands-on workshops at Niwaki Chiltern Street, learning how to make the most of your Niwaki Kenzan, Snips and Scissors to create Ikebana-inspired flower designs. Tutors Ai Jones and Frida Kim will help you explore the possibilities of combining Japanese methods and traditions with contemporary styles to discover stunning new ways of arranging flowers and plants.

Ikebana with Ai Jones
30 March 2022
14:00-17:00 at Niwaki Chiltern Street, W1

The workshop will begin with a brief history of Ikebana and an explanation of how Ai’s traditional training has lead on to her own unique style of flower arranging, which she will demonstrate. Following a tea break – Japanese, of course – it’s time to roll up your sleeves, don your apron and grab your tools (supplied or bring your own if you prefer) to follow Ai’s lead as she guides you through your first Kenzan-based arrangements. You will also have the chance to fashion a Kokedama – a hanging display made from a ball of moss. At the end of the workshop you will be welcome to dissassemble your creations to transport them home, where you can enjoy recreating what you have learnt.

Ikebana with Frida Kim
13 April 2022
14:00-17:00 at Niwaki Chiltern Street, W1

Frida’s workshop will begin with a brief history of Ikebana and an examination of its core principles, which she will demonstrate in practice. Inspired by her creations, participants will then be encouraged to work on their own arrangements, aided and encouraged by Frida. At the same time, you will be encouraged to trust your own creativity and sense of balance as you work. You’ll be amazed how quickly, with the right guidance, your carefully selected stems begin to resemble professional arrangements. There will be a break for light refreshments halfway through the workshop, and at the end you will be welcome to take reusable plant materials home with you, so you can show your new skills to your friends and family.

More about Ai

Ai Jones began studying Ikenobo / 池坊 – the oldest Ryuha / 流派 or style of Ikebana – as a 15 year old in her native Japan. Over time, she developed a passion for Western flower arranging and moved to the UK to learn more. Ai’s synthesis of Japanese and Western styles is now highly in demand, most recently at The Newt in Somerset, Bramble & Wild in Frome and the Niwaki HQ Showroom, Semley. We are delighted that she has chosen to share her journey of floral discovery with you.

More about Frida

Frida Kim, originally from Korea (where she trained and worked as a jewellery designer) creates stunning, sculptural floral arrangements for advertisements, shop windows and events, including projects for Toast, Vera Wang and Niwaki Chiltern Street. Her creations are imbued with soul and meaning, combining Eastern and Western sensibilities to convey a strong visual message using the most delicate fresh and dried materials. Frida’s contemporary, stylish take on this traditional art form is certain to inspire your own creativity.