Watarai Toru’s ikebana
as a way to live in harmony with the environment
Watarai Toru, based in Kanagawa, Japan, has made a name for himself in the world of ikebana, the ancient Japanese art of flower arranging. Initially crafting bamboo vases, Toru’s interest soon shifted to the art of ikebana itself. In 2002, he enrolled in the renowned Ohara school in Tokyo, deepening his understanding of this traditional craft.
Currently living near the mountains of Kamakura, Toru works at Galerie One’s space, where he makes and teaches ikebana. For Toru, ikebana transcends mere aesthetics; it embodies the wisdom inherent in plant life, inviting practitioners to rediscover themselves as a part of nature. In a world often disconnected from nature, ikebana offers a way to reconsider a modern lifestyle and to attempt living in a greater harmony with the environment.
Inspired by the rich natural surroundings, Toru ventures into the nearby forest to gather materials. Rather than seeking out specific plants, he allows nature to guide his creations, giving each arrangement a natural touch. In this sustainable approach, Toru not only preserves the diversity of plants but also encourages appreciation for the beauty in the resources that surround us.
In an introduction to his book, Eyes of Ikebana, Toru says:
Back in the days when life was more fragile, nature had the power to both provide and destroy the blessings of seasonal rewards. The strength, beauty, and impermanence of nature and plants must have led to a belief in animism (the attribution of a living soul in plants, inanimate objects, and natural phenomena) that is still seen around the world today, as well as deeply impacting the lives and hearts of people in that era. Such a desire to favorably take in the power of nature, which almost takes the form of a prayer, is at the heart of the “ikebana spirit.”
The parallels between ikebana and Japanese Shinto beliefs further highlight this connection to the environment. Both traditions respect the supernatural essence within nature, whether it be kami in Shinto or the natural world in ikebana. They share a profound reverence for the land, seasons, and people, fostering a holistic relationship with the environment.
Ikebana, as Toru sees it, serves as a sustainable conduit for harmonizing with nature. Through its beauty and mindful approach, ikebana offers profound insights into our interconnectedness with the environment, reminding us to cherish and preserve the natural world for future generations. And it is through beauty that we gain profound insights.
Artist - Watarai Toru @watara_ikebana @tumblerandflowers
www.tumblerandflowers.com
Space - Galerie One @one.galerie.one
Photos & text - Olga Shatokha @olgs_olgs www.shatokha.com