“Flowers become human in ikebana.”

  • The profound insight above from Sofu Teshigahara, the founder of the Sogetsu School, underscores the transformative journey of learning Ikebana, where the arranger's spirit is reflected in their creation.

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  • At our monthly meetings, you can observe demonstrations that teach essential techniques and showcase creative approaches. Hands-on workshops allow you to practice these skills, refine your interpretation, and receive helpful feedback. Special events, which dive deeper into Ikebana’s artistic possibilities, often feature guest instructors or seasonal themes.

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  • For more structured learning, lessons with a certified instructor offer step-by-step guidance through the Sogetsu curriculum. Each opportunity supports your growth as an Ikebana artist, helping you express your unique vision through floral arrangements.

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Member Meetings

Monthly Branch Meetings
and Workshops


Unless expressly stated these are held at
North Haven Gardens
7700 Northaven Road Dallas, TX 75230.

Monthly meetings are held on both Thursday afternoons and weekends to accommodate employed members.

We convene monthly to explore programs that feature a Sogetsu lesson or thematic focus. Each session begins with an instructor’s demonstration, offering insight into the chosen concept.

Following the demonstration, participants engage in a hands-on workshop, using their own containers and materials to create arrangements inspired by the theme.

Once completed, the instructor thoughtfully reviews each arrangement, offering critique to deepen understanding of the theme and guidance for enhancing the artistry.

Beginner Ikebana Workshops

Time: 10:45 a.m. to noon (Check the calendar for this year’s dates.)
Cost: $10 (includes flower and organic materials)

Join us in discovering the beauty and artistry of Ikebana in a supportive and hands-on environment.

A limited number of loaner materials are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Vases, kenzan, and other tools are available for purchase.

An Ikebana instructor will present a lesson from Sogetsu Textbook #1.

Guided Lessons

While our monthly meetings provide an excellent opportunity to explore Sogetsu Ikebana techniques, the most enriching way to learn is under the guidance of a certified Sogetsu instructor.

The Sogetsu curriculum is thoughtfully structured into five progressive modules, each comprising 20 lessons. The pace of learning is entirely personalized—some students prefer to progress with one lesson per month, while others may complete up to four. This journey is yours to shape.

North Texas Sogetsu Instructors

Additional Helpful Information

Lesson Details

All Sogetsu Ikebana teachers worldwide use the same textbooks, comprising four curricula. However, each teacher conducts classes with his/her original ideas.

It is recommended that you visit as many as possible to find the one that best suits you. You can also decide which classes to visit from the teachers who exhibited the works you liked most in ikebana exhibitions.

Necessary Class Items

  • Sogetsu Textbooks

  • Ikebana scissors

  • Hand towel

  • Flower bag

  • Vase/Container

  • Kenzan

Schedule and Fees

Each instructor will determine their class schedule and fees. Please reach out directly to an instructor to discuss what is available.

Certificates

There are 12 Sogetsu Certificates/Diplomas levels. They range from the 1st Certificate (Yonkyu) to Teacher’s Diploma 1st Grade Riji. After completing all the studies of the five curricula with textbooks, you can acquire a Teacher’s Diploma.

Yasuko Robinson

History of the Sogetsu Dallas Branch

Founded on November 14, 1974, the Sogetsu Dallas Branch has a rich and inspiring history rooted in creativity, resilience, and a shared passion for Ikebana.

One of the founding members, Yasuko Robinson, laid a strong foundation for our branch, gathering a vibrant community eager to embrace the art of Sogetsu Ikebana.

A pivotal moment came in 1974 during Neiman Marcus's renowned 'Fortnight Celebrations,' which spotlighted different cultures through art, fashion, and tradition. That year, 'Fortnight Japan' invited Kasumi Teshigahara—then Vice-President and Master Teacher of the Sogetsu School in Tokyo—to Dallas for a month-long visit. Recognizing the flourishing interest and readiness in the Dallas community, Kasumi chartered the Sogetsu Dallas Branch during her stay, officially inaugurating our group with a memorable celebration on November 14 at the "21 Club on Turtle Creek." Thirty-three members joined that day, marking the start of an enduring legacy.

The story of Sogetsu itself is deeply moving. In 1927, Sofu Teshigahara founded the Sogetsu School in Tokyo, envisioning Ikebana as a universal art form. The name 'Sogetsu,' derived from the characters for 'grass' and 'moon,' conveys a sense of boundless creativity and connection to the natural world. After World War II, Sofu demonstrated resilience and innovation by using rubble from the war-torn landscape to create arrangements, showing that beauty can emerge from even the most unlikely places. This vision inspired a global movement, with the first overseas branch forming in Hawaii in 1964. Today, Sogetsu boasts branches across 24 countries.

Our branch in Dallas has grown into a thriving community of artists and learners. Mrs. Robinson served as Director until 1988, when she was appointed Advisor by Hiroshi Teshigahara. Her legacy of leadership and dedication continues to inspire us.

Through our monthly meetings, workshops, and events, we carry forward the legacy of the Sogetsu School, which reminds us to find beauty everywhere and express it with our unique voices. We invite you to join us in this transformative journey.

Sofu Teshigahara