Hello, everybody. As you know, Im Jos Ypez and Im a student in Ies Castell dEmpries (obviously).

Im going to talk about Ikebana. Id like to explain the structure of my presentation; first, Im going to say what is Ikebana and which origin it has. Later Ill talk about its truly meaning, and then youll see some examples of styles. And, as finish, Ill explain why I chose this topic. Well, lets start with a simple question... Do you know what is Ikebana? Ikebana is the Japanese flowery art; its the armony of a simple, linear placement of flowers or natural elements. "Ikebana" is from the Japanese ikeru ("to place, to arrange, life, birth") and hana ("flower"), and it means living flowers. The truth about the origin of Ikebana is unidentified. But when the Buddhism reached Japan in the 7th century, it is thought to have come to Japan as part of Buddhist practice. The offering of flowers on the altar in honor of Buddha was part of worship. Ikebana evolved from the Buddhist ritual of offering flowers to the spirits of the dead. The first classical styles of Ikebana started in the middle of the fifteenth century; the first students and teachers of Ikebana were Buddhist priests and members. As time passed, other schools emerged, styles changed, and Ikebana became a custom among the Japanese society. Anyone imagine whats the use of Ikebana? Ikebana isnt only a decorative tradition; is a disciplined art form in which nature and humanity are brought together. Though ikebana is a creative expression, it has certain rules governing its form. The artist's intention behind each arrangement is shown through a piece's color combinations, natural shapes, graceful lines, and the usually implied meaning of the arrangement. The spiritual aspect of ikebana is considered very important to its practitioners. Silence is a must during practices of ikebana. It is a time to appreciate things in nature that people often overlook because of their busy lives. One becomes more patient and tolerant of differences, not only in nature, but also in general. Ikebana can inspire one to identify with beauty in all art forms. This is also the time when one feels closeness to nature which provides relaxation for the mind, body, and soul. Now, you will see in the screen 4 different Ikebana compositions, in 4 different styles. There are more than these, but these are the basical ones. Upright Style (Moribana) This is the most basic structure in ikebana. Moribana literally means piled-up flowers, which are arranged in a shallow container such as suiban, compote or basket. Moribana is so named because an arrangement in the wide-mouthed, shallow container suggests that the arrangement is a serving (moru in Japanese means to serve up, and is generally used on the occasion of filling a rice bowl, salad bowl, etc.). Moribana is secured on kenzan, or needlepoint holder(s), also known as metal frogs. Slanting Style (Moribana) The reversed arranging style can be also used depending on the placement of the display, or the shapes of branches. Choose branches which look beautiful when slanted. This style will give a softer impression than the upright version. Upright Style (Nageire) Nageire literally means tossed-in flowers, which are arranged in a narrow-mouthed, tall container without using kenzan, or needlepoint holder(s). Long popular, this style uses plant materials in their natural state, in containers such as those made of bamboo, or in water pitchers. Frogs are not used to hold the flowers, Instead, simple devices are made and fitted to either the material or container. Thus, this style and moribana differ in respect to the containers used and the method of holding material in place.

We often cut a garden flower and simply place it in a cup; this too is nageire. We can say that nageire starts with one-flower arrangements such as these. The basic beauty of nageire arrangements is present even in such simple arrangements. Slanting Style (Nageire) Slanting style creates a gentle touch and flexibility. Here is an ideal composition for beginners of nageire. Well, for finishing Id like to explain why I chose this topic. Well, Japan is a country where I want to go since I was a child (only thinking in computer games), but when I discovered Ikebana, I reaffirmed my wish, this time very strongly. I liked the nature since I was a child, and I used to contemplate it. Through years, its being more difficult for me to walk alone in the forest (there are weird people in Sant Miquels forest alright now); but now, thanks to Ikebana, I can relax with a little composition of natural things; its not like an ordinary plant: I think Ikebana is a form for express the feelings and they are a really important part of me. And thats all! Thank you for listening! Are there any questions? Ill be happy to answer them.