International Cultural Exchange Week: Ikebana Demonstration

The PALO ALTO ART CENTER and Foundation are proud to present 2020 INTERNATIONAL CULTRUAL EXCHANGE WEEK, April 09-12, 2020. This years theme, "Japanese Ceramics and the Way of Life," features Japanese ceramic arts, artists, and customs that highlight traditional practices and contemporary interpretations—demonstrating the importance of ceramics in Japanese lifestyle. _Ikebana _originated approximately 1500 years ago as a highly symbolic offering of flowers on the Buddhist altar done exclusively by Buddhist priests. Over the centuries, _ikebana _evolved from formal altar arrangements into a CULTURAL ART FORM PRACTICED BY THE _samurai_, using specific rules regarding composition and the combination of materials. By the late 19th century, _ikebana _was a widespread domestic art. For the Japanese, _ikebana _is more than simply displaying flowers in a vase. Like the tea ceremony, _ikebana _is a disciplined art form that involves creating an inner accord with the world. For the artist and viewer alike, it is an opportunity for contemplation and for achieving a deeper closeness with nature. The evening session explores the relationship between the floral materials and different styles of vases. One goal is to look at decisions an ikebana artist might consider when selecting a vase. It is hoped that this understanding can grow into a partnership between the potter and floral arranger. The _Ikebana _demonstration is lead by Susan Okada of the Wafu School and assisted by Thomas and Kathy Arakawa of Ararkawa Pottery of San Jose. Space is limited, please register now to save your spot. No prior experience necessary. Adults 18+ ICEX 2020 is made possible in part by our generous sponsors: * Association of Clay and Glass Artists of California (ACGA) * Darren Karopczyc * Lisa Molaro - MudNStix Thank you for your support! If you are interested in supporting this programming please contact Fanny Retsek, fanny.retsek@cityofpaloalto.org The Palo Alto Art Center and Foundation are proud to present 2020 International Cultural Exchange Week, April 09-12, 2020. This years theme, "Japanese Ceramics and the Way of Life," features Japanese ceramic arts, artists, and customs that highlight traditional practices and contemporary interpretations—demonstrating the importance of ceramics in Japanese lifestyle. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: Thursday, April 9th, 1-4 p.m. Hands-on _Ikebana _Workshop with Susan Okada [https://ICEX2020IkebanaWorkshop.eventbrite.com] Thursday, April 9th, 7-9 p.m. _Ikebana _Demonstration with Susan Okada [https://ICEX2020IkebanaDemo.eventbrite.com] Friday, April 10th, 7-9 p.m. Artist Presentations and Reception [https://ICEX2020Lectures.eventbrite.com] Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Hands-on Japanese Teapot workshop with John Neely [https://ICEX2020JohnNeely.eventbrite.com] Saturday, April 11, 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Hands-on _Matcha and Mochi_ Workshop with Jennifer Gunji-Ballsrud [https://ICEX2020MatchaWorkshop.eventbrite.com] Sunday, April 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Hands-on Workshop-Wheel with Hitomi Shibata [https://ICEX2020ShigarakiWheel.eventbrite.com] Sunday, April 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Hands-on Workshop-Slab with Takuro Shibata [https://ICEX2020ShigarakiSlab.eventbrite.com]