The Sogetsu School of Ikebana was started in 1927 by the founder Sofu Teshigahara who questioned the traditions of ikebana and preferred to respect the freedom of individual expressions. “Anytime, anywhere, by anyone,” — and with any materials — is the creed of the Sogetsu School. The Sogetsu Kaikan, the building of Sogetsu Foundation Headquarters, is the home of Sogetsu Ikebana and other creative activities beyond each genre.

Ikebana International (I.I.) is a worldwide, nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion and appreciation of ikebana. The organization was founded in 1956 by the late Ellen Gordon Allen whose dream was to create an association uniting people through their mutual love of nature and enjoyment of ikebana. That dream has spread to over 50 countries with 143 chapters and a membership of more than 7,000 persons. Pittsburgh Chapter #25 is our local chapter.

The 25th Ikebana International Chapter was founded in 1959 in Pittsburgh to connect those practicing Ikebana in the region together in “Friendship Through Flowers.” The Chapter currently contains nearly 30 members representing schools including Sogetsu, Ichiyo, Ohara, Ikenobo and Keika-Keizan. The group meets for special events, workshops and exhibitions and publishes a monthly newsletter for members.