Image credit to Sogetsu Ikebana website http://www.sogetsu.or.jp/e/
Before resuming my ikebana studies at Sogetsu Kaikan, I had determined to do things a little differently this time. Last winter there were various challenges inherent in the move to Tokyo competing for my attention. As a result I often found the energy for my studies somewhat dissipated. This time I have determined to take a more clearly focused approach.
I am determined to pay closer attention to the Master Teachers’ demonstrations, make more comprehensive notes, take more photos, and be more observant of others’ creations.
In addition, since I can be my own worst tiger-mom, I will direct more attention to what I learn as I work through the design themes. Though critical evaluation will always be part of the process, I wish to better manage performance anxiety.
Mindful of the evaluation’s usefulness in refining my technique, awareness and artistic development; I will keep my head down and incorporate feedback into subsequent work.
Paul Arden (once a creative director at Saatchi and Saatchi) was not one to focus first on flawless performance. His was a more practical and achievable approach which might be more gratifying at numerous levels. He put it this way: Run with what you do and fix it along the way.
Speaker, author and former professor Srikumar Rao suggests that in any undertaking to which you attach some importance, you need to ask but one question: Did you do the best you were capable of doing?
Other students’ work awaiting evaluation
Good question. Frankly, my best is all that can do. If my best effort does not result in particularly great ikebana, that’s something I can work on. Forever. How disappointing it would be if we could be perfect at anything and everything on the first go. Where would we then find the joy of ongoing practice and creation?