I discovered Kusamono by chance while studying Ikebana. I was immediately drawn to it due to its natural forms which reflect the natural environments I am familiar with. Also, it has a much freer form than Ikebana. I feel there is more opportunity for working with the natural elements I enjoy while out walking. In fact, the Kusamono I create remind me of special places I have visited. Like Ikebana, Kusamono is an opportunity to practice mindfulness, connect with the natural
world, and express your creativity.
Kusamono is a Japanese botanical art where arrangements of wild grasses and flowers are placed in pots or trays but can also be placed in stones or driftwood. Originally, they were displayed next to bonsai as accent plants. However, now it has developed into its own art form.
The name is composed of two Japanese characters-- “grass” and “thing”—which together suggest modest, everyday plants. A well-designed kusamono usually reflects the season in which it is made and suggest a particular habitat. For example: a woodland, a meadow, marshland, the coast.
More beautiful Kusamono
Plants to use
The plants usually match the habitat you are trying to create. A woodland for example may include ferns, woodland flowers and moss.
How to create a Kusamono
The following link shows you how to make your own Kusamono
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