Chartered March 1, 1966

Our Chapter.

The Colorado Springs Chapter 95 was charted on March 1, 1966. We have over 50 members from around the Colorado Springs area. Our members enjoy the benefits of various programs, workshops, demonstrations, and many other activities. We have talented teachers from both Sogetsu and Ikenobo schools. We are also part of the Ikebana International North & Central American Region (NCAR), a headquarters for the North and Central American regional chapters. All skill levels are welcome to join us and discover the art of Ikebana.

Ikebana International, a Japanese cultural non-profit organization, was founded August, 1956 by Ellen G. Allen in Tokyo, Japan. The organization endeavors to stimulate, cultivate and promote the study of Ikebana and related Japanese arts, while strengthening relationships among Ikebana teachers and students.

What is Ikebana?

Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement and one of the traditional arts of Japan. Ikebana is much more than floral decoration. It is an art just like painting, calligraphy, sculpture and bonsai are arts. Ikebana has specified principles and creative theories; it requires highly developed technical skills and is a creative means of expressions. It has a recorded history that goes back for more than 600 years. Ikebana's beginnings are traced to the introduction of Buddhism to Japan in the 6th century when offerings of flowers were placed on the alter, and later in containers, in honor of Buddha. Over the centuries, ikebana evolved from the temple to the castle and, eventually, to the Japanese home. Many different styles and schools of ikebana developed along the way. Today, there are over 2,000 different schools of ikebana. They include both classical and modern avant-garde styles.

What is Ikebana International?

Ikebana International (I.I.) is a non-profit cultural organization headquartered in Tokyo, Japan and dedicated to the promotion and appreciation of Ikebana, Japanese flower arranging. It was founded in 1956 by the late Ellen Gordn Allen who promoted the aim of fostering international fellowship through the study of ikebana. With the motto "Friendship Through Flowers". I.I. has over 10,000 members from over 60 countries worldwide.