Remarks of Consul-General Hidenobu Sobashima at the 10th Annual Ikebana and Ceramics Exhibition at Qdos Art Gallery on Sunday 22 September 2013
Mr Graeme Wilkie, Ceramist, Sculptor and Director of Qdos Art Gallery,
Mr Christopher James, Teacher of Sogetsu Ikebana,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I appreciate this opportunity to say a few words at the opening of the 10th Annual Ikebana and Ceramics Exhibition at Qdos Art Gallery.
As the Consul-General of Japan, I have various occasions to speak.
In connection with the world liveability ranking of Melbourne and other Australian cities, I have repeatedly stated that perhaps the collaboration and cooperation between the Japanese residents and Australian hosts is contributing to this admirable liveability, economically and culturally, in this multicultural society.
The history of Ikebana or Japanese flower arrangement can be traced back at least as early as in the 14th century, while the Sogetsu school was established in the 1920’s by Mr Sofu Teshigahara who got out of the traditional formalities to freely create arrangements to express beauties with flowers.
Mr James has been teaching Sogetsu Ikebana for many years.
Ceramics developed all over the world.
From around the beginning of the 17th century, modern Japanese ceramics have flourished.
Mr Wilkie spent time in Japan and fostered his respect for the Japanese aesthetic which, he says, has formed an inspiration for his own work.
The continuation of Ikebana and ceramics exhibitions for ten years is quite an achievement.
Thus I should like to avail myself of this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to Mr Graeme Wilkie, Mr Christopher James and their collaborators for hosting Sogetsu sculpture exhibitions for ten years.
With this appreciation, it is my honor and pleasure to declare the 10th Annual Ikebana and Ceramics Exhibition at Qdos Art Gallery officially open.
Thank you.