Illinois Prairie Chapter of the Ikenobo Ikebana Society of America celebrated their 20th anniversary on October 20 – 22, 2017 in Champaign / Urbana, Illinois. The chapter was honored to welcome the Headmaster Designate Senko Ikenobo accompanied by Ikenobo Headquarters Professor Manabu Noda. The symposium “Brilliant Future of Ikenobo” was opened with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts KCPA on October 20th.
The exhibition consisted of 40 ikebana arrangements representing all styles of Ikenobo. Illinois Prairie Chapter Members were honored that the Headmaster Designate viewed each arrangement and conversed with every member creating an unforgettable experience for all.
Headmaster Designate Senko Ikenobo was the honored guest for Japan House Open House on Saturday October 21st. 260 people were able to attend her lecture and the Headmaster Designate viewed the ikebana arrangements of the students at the University of Illinois.
At the same time a tapestry Free-style workshop was taught by Professor Manabu Noda to Ikenobo Northern American members.
On 22nd, the movie Hana Ikusa (Flower and Sword) was screened and the Headmaster Designate greeted the audience followed by the demonstration by the Headmaster Designate at Foellinger Great Hall of KCPA. The Headmaster Designate captivated the audience with her engaging style while demonstrating Free style, Tatehana, Shoka and Rikka. The audience enjoyed the table Reishikiike performed by Professor Noda. For the grand finale, the Headmaster Designate asked for two volunteers to try their hand at ikebana. After some finishing touches the Headmaster Designate concluded her demonstration encouraging the volunteers and other audience members to join the Illinois Prairie Chapter and enjoy arranging Ikenobo ikebana.
