Ikebana International Toronto #208 Canada

November 26th, 2024
We are thrilled to share that the Ikebana International Toronto Chapter has received the Japanese Consul-General’s Commendation at the Conferment Ceremony on Tuesday evening (November 26, 2024). This prestigious award is a testament to the years of collective effort, proactive dedication, and
remarkable contributions of our chapter toward fostering mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and the Province of Ontario.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Consul-General, Mr. Matsunaga, for initiating this Commendation. As a chapter, we believe this recognition will serve as a source of inspiration and encouragement, motivating us to continue striving for excellence and reaching even greater heights in the future.
November 9th, 2024　　Workshop
It was an exciting Saturday morning on November 9th as we gathered for our featured workshop on “Leaf Manipulation.” We were thrilled to welcome 30 participants, including 21 members and nine non-members.
Leaf manipulation is a modern and captivating floral design technique that
was new to many of us. It’s like learning an entirely new artistic floral language!
The possibilities are endless; you can achieve countless creative forms by experimenting with different ways to manipulate leaves in your arrangements.”
During the workshop, Lily graciously demonstrated over 15 techniques to manipulate Aspidistra leaves. Each method created unique visual effects, showcasing elements such as lines, movement, volume, depth, texture, and contrast. We learned that all you need are simple tools like scissors,
staples, wires, and double-sided tapes. The techniques don’t have to be complex—a simple cut, a twist, or a fold can result in stunning,
innovative designs that add a “wow” factor to any arrangement.
After the demonstration, the participants were encouraged to try their hand at manipulating the leaves using the techniques shown or experimenting with their own creative ideas. It was inspiring to see so many members discovering new ways to express their creativity, making their floral arrangements even more dynamic and unique.
A heartfelt thanks to Lily Leung for her incredible expertise and to all the volunteers who helped make this workshop a success! And, of course, thank you to everyone who participated. We hope you had fun and left with a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of leaf manipulation!