The 9th Everyone's Sogetsu Ikebana Exhibition on Facebook "Ikebana at Home!" Result Announcement

Due to the spread of the COVID-19, we have not been able to send out the supplementary prizes for the 8th and 9th Everyone’s Sogetsu Ikebana Exhibition due to the impact on international mailings. We apologize for the delay, and thank you for your understanding. We will send out the prizes to domestic winners from early November 2020. As soon as the situation improves, we will send out the prize as soon as possible.

• Golden Moon Prize and Silver Moon Prize (Sogetsu Ceramic Kiln original vase)
  Japan: Shipping will begin in early November 2020.
  Overseas: Shipping will start in early November 2020, as long as there are areas where there are no problems.
• Grand IKERU-chan Prize (IKERU-chan goods)
  Japan: Shipping will begin in early November 2020.
  Overseas: Shipping will start in early November 2020, as long as there are areas where there are no problems.
• Participation Prize of the IKERU-chan Prize (IKERU-chan goods)
  Japan: Shipping will begin in mid-November 2020.
  Overseas: Shipping will begin in mid-November 2020 by sea, as long as there are areas where there are no problems with shipping.

At the moment I saw this work, I thought it was a work which could transmit the light and fun feelings of the person who created this work. The poppy’s odd-looking curves and the expression of the leaves echo the movement of the calligraphy in the background, creating a unique landscape. At first glance, the work looks like to be arranged very roughly, but the shape of the vessel and the balance of colors in the space have been well thought out, and the design is simple and lean.

The fact that this work is composed entirely of Chinese peony, and that the volume of flowers is used to create a captivating effect, giving a sense of dignity. The artwork in the background and the unique shape of the vase, each of which has its own personality and seems difficult to connect in the same space, blend naturally with each other. It’s probably due to the proper distance from the artwork as well as the good choice of the vase and flower materials.

Delicate reeves spirea flowers and unconventional wire are a difficult combination, and the wire could damage the spirea, creating a sense of cruelty, but in this piece of work, the relationship between the two is effortless and shows perfect harmony. By rising up from the vase, the wires appear to move spontaneously and the softness of the spirea flowers stands out.

The flowing look of the palm is highlighted to the maximum level. Although the volume of the other flowers alone would be enough as a work, they are well balanced with the palm and the different textures of each can be enjoyed. The glass vase, with only its feet visible, is also a good point, giving it a light and floating feel. This is a piece of work that looks casual, but is well calculated and well put together.

I can see the fun in changing and transforming the shape of the leaves. There’s a rhythm to the way of arranging, and its relationship to the vase is bold.

Each of the flowers is carefully arranged in a way that captures their characteristics, paying attention to the movement of the leaves as well. The work has a seasonal feel to it.

This work shows an outstanding ability of composition with nothing superfluous in it. The red label on the Ramune bottle leads to funnels, which connect to a plant with a floating impression. I can feel the joy that went into creating this work.