The Branch
The Sogetsu Branch Nederland was founded in 1981; it is part of the Sogetsu Foundation in Tokyo. Its objective is to pass on the developments and information from Japan to its members. The Branch has a board and around 115 members. The Branch director is responsible for the direct contacts with Japan and provides a clear image both inside the Branch as well as to the outside world.
Sogetsu principles
The basic of Sogetsu consist of basic style and variations. Through these the sense of proportions, space and colours are studied and developed. Later, some forty themes are introdeced. Colour, lines, mass and space play an important role. The free arrangements are aimed at the development of one’s own creativity and inner growth. Text books and literature are available in the Japanese language and also in English. In many countries teachers are lecturing to students, interested in the Sogetsu priciples.
Free expression is stimulated by the use of specific techniques through which the outlines (shapes) of natural materials can be changed.The use of materials like metal, perspex, glass and textile make it possible to make arrangements in a non conventional manner.
An arrangement can be make in any environment and in any size.
Sogetsu ikebana is an artistic creation, expressed in an arrangement with natural materials or sculptures.
Activities
Lessons
Lessons according the Sogetsu syllabus are given in Dutch by qualified teachers (approved by Japan). They follow the rules and latest developments of the Sogetsu Foundation and they use tuition materials from Japan.
Both adults and children can follow lessons. Those interested may apply for the Sogetsu teachers course. The tuition-fees are variable.
Some teachers are invited abroad as visiting lectures. The spoken language is English.
For further information: please refer to the teacher
Theory file
Next to the existing Japanese textbooks the Branch teachers have composed a theory file with additional instructions for the students. It is available to all members.
Next to this file a special segment has been developed to support the teachers. This part is available to the teachers of the Branch only.
For further information: refer to secretary.
Expositions
There are various annual Sogetsu Ikebana expositions. These are organized by individual teachers or by Sogetsu Branch Nederland.
Often, there is a co-operation with artists from other disciplines or with other Ikebana schools.
For further information: please refer to the activities.
Workshops and demonstrations
Many teachers organize workshops and demonstrations for an interested audience. Often, these are integrated in spouse programs during international meetings.
Seminars
Sogetsu Branch Nederland organizes bi-annual-seminars including various workshops. These are conducted by a master-instructor from Japan or by a highly qualified teacher. Members of other Branches and Study Groups are welcome to participate.
Brochure of Sogetsu Branch Nederland
In a flyer the most important features of Sogetsu Branch Nederland are mentioned. This flyer can be requested at the treasurer free of charge.
Sogetsu tulip
A new species of Tulip was introduced to mark the occasion of 400 year of trading relations between The Netherlands and Japan in the year 2000. It was named “Sogetsu”. The flower was used in the closing arrangement during a demonstration by master-instructor Tetsunori Kawana in Zeist.
The tulip is for sale in the Netherlands since.
Events the Netherlands-Japan
Regularly, Sogetsu Branch Nederland is asked to participate in various public events, related to Japan. For the exhibition “Japanse Zomer 2006”, in the van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, Marja Vervoort-Biemond made a large Sogetsu ikebana object in the main hall of the museum.
Contacts
Sogetsu Branch Nederland keeps close contacts with the Belgian ‘Study Group Sogetsu Azalea’, with Ikebana International Netherlands and with the Nederlandse Ikebana Vereniging. Joint events are organized on a regular basis.
Interested to become a member?
Sen an e-mail to info@sogetsubranchnederland.nl