Would you agree that the beauty of the universe and the art of nature can be experienced in a single flower? If you do, you might also agree that the art of arranging flowers is more than just putting them together in a vase as a feature to a room or a table.
There is great value to receive in taking in the sight and smell of a well organised arrangement of flowers. If it is beautifully done, it may even move you deeply, leaving some kind of inspiration for you to carry through your day or week. My quest for learning the art of using flowers as a way to bring together a harmony with nature started in my passion for Ikebana. These lessons in flower arrangement are less about putting flowers in a vase as it is more a way of living and experiencing a connection with nature.
You might have also noticed that at Naturally Chinese, our flower arrangements are never uniform, but asymmetrical and less elaborate. This is truer to Ikebana. The idea of taking plants that are unassuming, even slightly withering and setting them against a single flower rather than a dozen brings the whole arrangement alive in an interesting way. It also complements our ethos in bringing you the essence of what we have to offer you through our ethos of cooking and offering you a modern twist on the traditions of Chinese cuisine.
At Naturally Chinese, many of our staff also use Ikebana with the table centerpieces. Sometimes they are more elaborate arrangements and some are simpler. The idea is that all arrangements are special if done with patience, care and attention. A plant or flower setting may be a small addition to the whole dining experience at Naturally Chinese. It has however become crucial to its identity. For its worth, it enlivens the mind, spirit, and appeals to our senses.
In the picture above, this is an arrangement inspired from the feel of mid winter. Soon it will be spring and the buds will open up, and the winter leaves and stalk will wither away. The vase also plays an important role in telling the story.
