
Written by Darcy

Can you tell me about oriental flower arrangement?
There are two main characteristics of oriental flower arrangement, the first is the line, shape and form and the second is artistic intention. These are what we take into consideration when creating a piece and are what we look for when observing a piece.
Oriental flower arrangement emphasises creating a beautiful artistic conception just like in Chinese painting. There are two ways of expressing a concept. You can either first use the materials you have to hand and use them to express something or come up with a theme first and then go and select your materials accordingly.

Density is very important for this and clustered areas should be balanced with spacious areas. Just like in Chinese painting you have to find the right balance between form and formless to create a harmonious rhythm. We can also call this the interaction of Yin and Yang (阴阳).
Can you tell me about this piece?
This work is fitting with the current season. Now we are entering the colder part of Winter and it is the time of heavy snowfall. Here I chose some branches with plum-blossom-like flowers. It’s just like falling snow in the morning and the plum blossoms are persevering through the harsh weather. Plum blossoms grow in Winter and in traditional Chinese culture symbolize strength and purity.
So what is the difference between arranging flowers at home and oriental flower arrangement?
Oriental flower arrangement has a theme. Then there is the Dao (道)of flower arrangement. Dao is often translated as the way or path. In Chinese philosophy it is used to refer to the path to enlightenment.

With time you can go from practising on outer appearances to finding inner peace and harmony. This will then in turn naturally manifest itself outwardly as gentleness, softness and kindness. This is a way to cultivate your heart.
There are five things we pursue in this art:
静Serenity and stillness
雅Elegance
美Beauty
真Truth and sincerity
和Harmony and peace
The highest level of this art is to realize that oneness with all, in Chinese it is called ‘天人合一’. The ‘way’ to this realization is contained within the art itself. So if you are interested in learning you must first find a teacher and be willing to dedicate time and energy. Then as time goes you will be sure to blossom.