VOL.213 MARCH 2026
EXPLORING JAPANESE POTTERY [Discovering Japan Through the Eyes of Japanese Influencers] Contemporary Ikebana: An Evolved Form of Ikebana

OZONO Saihou is a Contemporary Ikebana Artist. In this issue, he speaks about the fundamentals of ikebana or kado, and the evolution of ikebana into a contemporary art form.

Many people know ikebana or kado, traditional Japanese cultural practices that have been passed down since the Muromachi period (from the late 14th to the late 16th century). What images come to mind when you think of ikebana? Many people may still imagine someone dressed in kimono, kneeling on a tatami, arranging flowers in strictly prescribed forms. Today’s ikebana, though, have evolved significantly.

Ikebana or kado, in which plants serve as the main element in combination with various other materials to create compositions for appreciation, is one of Japan’s proudest artistic expressions. Although ikebana and kado are nearly synonymous, kado carries a stronger nuance related to spirituality and philosophy. This art, which has even become popular overseas recently, originated and evolved in Japan and has a history of some 550 to 600 years. Ikebana is said to have originated from the kyoka practice of offering flowers, introduced to Japan with the arrival of Buddhism. By the Muromachi period, monks arranged flowers before statues of Buddha as acts of devotion and prayer.

Today, there are said to be more than 300 schools of ikebana, each school differing slightly in philosophy and technique. I belong to the Sogetsu School, one of the three major schools.¹ Sogetsu allows greater freedom and places a stronger emphasis on artistic expression than other schools.

In addition to holding the title of Shihan (Master) of the Sogetsu School, I am active as a Contemporary Ikebana Artist. I have created numerous innovative works, including arrangements that incorporate everyday items and compositions where human figures themselves serve as the vessel for flowers. Although the definition of contemporary ikebana is quite ambiguous, I consider there are three fundamental principles: (1) deconstructing the elements of ikebana, and reconstructing them in a contemporary context based on an understanding of traditional Japanese culture; (2) creating works that can hold their own within the contemporary art scene; and (3) showing respect for all cultures, namely incorporating elements from the West and other cultures, while keeping Japanese culture as the primary focus.

Creating contemporary ikebana works requires, above all, a deep understanding of the foundational elements of Japanese culture. With a complete understanding of the most essential elements required in an ikebana arrangement, I constantly decide whether to remove a traditional element or to leave it in place deliberately. My decision aims to create innovative and contemporary works unlike anything seen before, while ensuring that each can still be clearly understood as an ikebana arrangement.

In today’s diverse art world, painting, sculpture, interior design — all forms of expressions — are both rivals and peers of contemporary ikebana. In the realm of art, creating works that catch the eye requires a compelling message. Contemporary ikebana works with titles that convey strong messages are fully on par with other art forms.

I also believe that adherence to the boundaries of Japanese culture may lead to the decline of ikebana culture. Creating works that honor cultures beyond Japan and incorporate Western elements, I believe, is an effective strategy for ensuring the survival of contemporary ikebana.

OZONO Saihou
First-class master of the Sogetsu school, one of the three major schools of ikebana, and Contemporary Ikebana Artist. Born in Tokyo in 1987. As a Contemporary Ikebana Artist, OZONO designs and arranges contemporary ikebana works brimming with originality. His works of art are defined by their innovative nature. Striving to create pieces that incorporate materials other than flowers, OZONO infuses contemporary and stylish expression with a meaningful message. He is the winner of numerous awards, including the 103rd Sogetsu Newcomer Award (2022), the 1st Sogetsu Excellence Award (2024), and the Ikebana Grand Prix 2019 Special Jury Award. OZONO’s work has been presented internationally, including in countries such as China and Italy, and has been featured in numerous media.

• 1. The three major schools of ikebana are Sogetsuryu, Ikenobo, and Ohararyu.

By OZONO Saihou
Photo: ISSIKI Takumaru; OZONO Saihou