Ikebana, also known as kado, is a Japanese form of floral design that reflects the Japanese culture’s appreciation of nature and its simplistic beauty. The term “ikebana” translates to “making flowers come alive” which is done through minimal use of flowers and plant material to create a pleasing floral design. Some of the typical attributes of an ikebana floral design are asymmetry, visual balance and use of seasonal flowers and plant material. If you’re interested in exploring the serene beauty and creative spirit of Japanese floral art, here’s a wonderful opportunity.

Workshop Title: Road to the 100th Anniversary of Sogetsu Ikebana in 2027
Instructor: Master Sensei Misei Ishikawa
When: Saturday, October 11, 2025 – 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Where: North Scottsdale United Methodist Church,
11735 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85245
What to Expect
Participants can choose from:
Morning Demonstration – $25
Lunch – $15
Afternoon Hands-On Workshop – $50

Master Instructor at Sogetsu Headquarters, Master Sensei Misei Ishikawa brings decades of international teaching and cultural exchange experience to her art.
Here’s a snapshot of her distinguished journey:

Global Educator: In 1979, she moved to Chennai, India, assisting with Sogetsu demonstrations under the Japan Foundation’s Performance Abroad program. In 1998, she relocated to Nairobi, Kenya, creating arrangements for the Japanese Embassy’s official celebrations attended by dignitaries including members of the Imperial Family.

Cultural Bridge: In 2009, she served as interpreter for Iemoto Akane Teshigahara during significant milestone celebrations for Ikebana International and the Sogetsu Teachers Association in Hong Kong. By 2010, she was named Master Instructor and Director of Sogetsu’s Tokyo Minami Branch.

International Presence: She has led demonstrations across Mexico, India, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Australia, the U.S., Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, and Kenya. In June 2021, she assisted Iemoto Teshigahara during an Ikebana International Gala Luncheon. Beyond teaching, she serves as Trustee of the Sogetsu Foundation and sits on the Standing Committee of the Japan Ikebana Art Association.

Her artistry is known for capturing the dynamic balance of nature and humans—expressed through seasons, form, color, and sentiment—influenced by her international experiences and deep understanding of Sogetsu’s creative philosophy.

Why We Think You’ll Love It

It’s a rare chance to witness—and learn from—someone who shapes the future of Sogetsu both in Japan and around the world! For more details or registration, visit the Phoenix Sogetsu Ikebana website, phxsoikebana.org/workshop-oct-11-2025

Submitted by Renee Waite and Mickie Rustad

Photo 1 R. Waite

Two varieties of plant material and twisting branches create this dynamic ikebana arrangement.

Photo 2 R. Waite

Instructor, Master Sensei Misei Ishikawa, will present the Oct. 11th ikebana workshop.

Photo 3 R. Waite

Anthuriums, iris, and a twisting branch are all that is needed to create this ikebana arrangement.

Photo 4 R. Waite

Vertical ikebana arrangement with flowers in complementary colors and a beautiful branch.

Photo 5 R. Waite

An interesting ikebana design using both vertical and diagonal lines along with rocks, seed pods, and foliage.