Welcome, I’m Hanako Motoya, Ikebana master and teacher. I teach Ikebana lessons in London and Kyoto
Ikebana master and
London-based teacher
I also work with both private and commercial clients to create arrangements inspired by the beauty of nature
What is Ikebana?
You might have some images about Ikebana, one of them might be like a single flower in a small vase. It is no exaggeration to say that is the symbol of Ikebana.
Ikebana, one of the traditional arts of Japan, is over 600 years old and emerged as an independent art during the Muromachi period. The four seasons, each with its own distinctive beauty have nurtured all of Japanese culture.
Contemporary Ikebana was established in the mid-Muromachi Period (AD 1336 – 1573) by a monk of Kyoto-Rokkakudo. This is the beginning of the Ikenobo school, one of the 3 major styles, with Sogetsu and Ohara.
Nowadays, we have over 50 schools in Japan, and each one has their own philosophy and style. The most interesting and beautiful thing about Ikebana is expressing “Space”.
About me
When I started Ikebana I was working as a florist and was more interested in European Flower Arrangement. But I was eager to be an expert on my field, so 27 years ago I knocked on the door of one of the traditional Japanese arts.
Once my first work was corrected by my teacher, it happened. It was a total sensation. My teacher touched each stem gently and moved them slightly.
What I thought was a beautiful arrangement became completely different. It was jaw-droppingly amazing. That sensation keeps fascinating me.
My Ikebana work
Hanakanade
Landscape Moribana - Realistic
Morimono
One-row
Inclining
Rimpa
Rimpa
Freestyle
Rising form
Rising form
Rimpa
Hanakanade
Commissions
I create arrangements for London and Kyoto locations and events such as:
- private homes
- corporate displays and events
- corporate activities (from 10 people)
These can be one-off or commissioned on a weekly/bi-weekly basis.
How it works – it’s simple!
Have a look through my work and if there are any arrangements that you particularly love make a note of them.
Contact me
Email me using the form below.
What happens next
I communicate with you to finalise your budget, check colour palettes and arrangement style. A 50% non-refundable deposit is paid up front to secure my time. I then create the arrangements on site.
Lessons
Regular and trial classes are held at weekends in East London and Kyoto, Japan as I am currently studying Ikebana in Japan.
Beginners are welcome! Required materials for Ikebana are provided.
Schedule is TBC.
Workshops
Available to organise and host workshops as a gift for a Birthday/Valentine’s Day/Mother’s Day, a Corporate launch party, or a Wellbeing program.
Any requirement, such as purpose, venue, date, time, and price, is negotiable.