Ikebana: The Zen Way of Flowers

Filled with inspiring images of unconventional flower arrangements, this new book by Japanese Ikebana master Yuji Ueno shows you how to use light and position as well as color, shape and texture--of both flowers and vessel--to make inexpensive arrangements that convey a Zen sense of simplicity, calm and balance.

Ueno's arrangements are informal, but authentic and true to the original wabi-sabi spirit of ikebana practiced by Zen Buddhist priests. In this book you'll receive:

• Tips on the basics of selecting flowers and foliage, choosing a vessel to harmonize with the available light in your spaces, and more
• Inspiration to utilize the beauty of a flower's many stages, the imperfections of leaves and branches, and the potential in flawed and unusual vases
• A sense of connectedness to the seasons of the year and how to translate that into seasonal arrangements using found and foraged foliage
• An appreciation for simple and imperfect components and a slow, mindful approach to arranging your flowers

Ueno's unique approach makes it clear that you don't need special training, expensive equipment or store-bought flowers to create beautiful arrangements. All you need is an open mind, a sense of awareness--and a good set of clippers--to create Ikebana that are truly unique, expressive and uplifting.