ST. Petersburg　# 65 U.S.A

12/15/25
Demonstration　 Chapter Meeting　 Open to the Public
Sogetsu
This was our Holiday program which included a demonstration by two Sogetsu Senseis followed by an international pot-luck lunch.
Program Demonstration Highlights:
•Demonstrators: Monique Noujaim & Claire Spencer-Spears – Sogetsu Senseis and Chapter members.

•Demonstration: Each created five unique arrangements embodying elements of Wabi-Sabi in the uniquely Sogetsu style. Wabi-Sabi reminds us that nothing lasts forever, nothing is ever truly finished, and nothing needs to be perfect to be filled with grace. We see it in weathered wood, in the crooked curve of a branch, in a flower that blooms, fades, and still retains dignity as it falls. We see it in a handmade bowl with a tiny flaw — a flaw that doesn’t ruin it, but reveals it.Wabi-Sabi teaches us that beauty is not glossy, perfect, or disposable. Beauty is weathered, truthful, and enduring. It is the dignity of having lived.
Details of a few of the Arrangements: Monique utilized a circular rusted wire frame, with mitsumati painted red and small bunches of Baby Breath which highlighted the “rusty, old” element of Wabi-Sabi.
Claire used an old Phillipino handmade Tsubo container which because of its age had a patina of various tones and shades of grey and black. She had treated the container so that it could retain water. In this container she shaped a freshly dropped palm frond highlighting the texture and shading of the transitioning of the palm from fresh to dried. This arrangement reflected the transitory and old elements of Wabi-sabi.

•At the end of the demonstration the audience received a hand out which listed five ancient Japanese rules that make life peaceful. The audience was captivated by the arrangements and appreciative to receive the inspirational material.

•Afternoon Activities:
•Members partook of the delicious international food items they had prepared for sharing. There were five beautifully decorated tables highlighting various holiday themes. Some members had created beautiful arrangements that complimented each individual table’s theme. In keeping with the Wabi-Sabi theme members brought their own plates so as to limit the use of disposables at the luncheon.

•Holiday wishes were exchanged and the smiling faces and laughter in the room confirmed that the event was most enjoyable.