Minimalism meets here
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In this ikebana arrangement Arelia leaves and carnations bring out the contrast in floral design, writes Hema Vijay
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On view: The contrast between the Eastern and Western concepts come into focus.
The twain between the East and the West sometimes presents itself when you least expect it. Like in this ikebana arrangement by Prerana Mehta. Done with Arelia leaves and carnations, it explicitly brings out the contrast between eastern and western notions of floral design.
Watch the line these Arelia stems take; upwards. The lines are important here. In Japanese, this is called the ‘Shin’ line or the line that drifts heavenwards. “In the West, you just clump a bunch of flower stalks in a vase to create a spectacular effect. In contrast, philosophical concepts are an integral part of ikebana”, Prerana says. This arrangement was a tribute to my teacher, she adds.
Incidentally, Ikebana is not primarily about aesthetics, and not even about just art. Its true significance lies in its philosophical reverberations. Which is perhaps why, the very process of putting together an ikebana arrangement calms down a person.
In this particular arrangement, the limited use of material spells out minimalism. The shallow Moribana (a Japanese term referring to shallow containers that allow water to be seen) vase projects the water element. Prerana has trimmed the Arelia branch to make it look like a tree. To cover up the pin holders that she has used, Prerana has grouped more Arelia stems at the base level. “Not just Arelia stems, any kind of stalk (even flowered ones) may be used”, Prerana says. This arrangement will remain fresh at least for five days.
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