2010 Natural and life floral Exhibition shows Elegance

The first “Nature and Life” floral exhibition by the Ikebana association in 2008 at the Fo Guan Yuan Art Gallery 2 Christchurch was very well received by the local residents. In 2010, yet again the two organisations worked together to orchestrate this year’s “Nature and Life” floral exhibition for the third time from 5th November to 7th November, at the same time celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Ikebana Association. At the 2010 exhibition, the floral tutor presented 28 different pieces of work from three distinct factions for display.

The curator of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery 2 Venerable Abbess Manshin and the Japanese diplomat Mr. Kawai were invited to the ribbon cutting and speeches during the opening ceremony. Along with the 50 guests present that day, president of the Canterbury Horticulture Association, Chairperson and the second Chairperson of the Garden City Trust as well as the past presidents of the Ikebana Association were present at the opening ceremony.

The president of the Ikebana Association thanked the FGY Art Gallery 2 in his speech for the provision of exhibition space and the opportunity to work together to organise the exhibition while the curator Venerable Manshin also presented a series of articles written by Grand Master Hsing-Yun that outlines the characteristics of flowers and its interaction with life and mentioned the close relationship between the theme of this exhibition and the architecture of the Temple building. Japanese diplomat Mr. Kawai also expressed his thanks for the years of opportunities as a tutor and co-operation between himself and the association.

Visitors that day were able to appreciate the elegance and beauty of the simplistic floral arrangements. The ceremony was then concluded with a lunch service in the Water Drop Café to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Ikebana Association.