Cultivating the symbolism and tradition of Ikebana—the art of bringing flowers to life through arrangements—the ground floor of Japan House São Paulo takes on new colors and forms with the arrival of the exhibition 'DŌ – The Path to Serenity,' running from June 29 to August 4. Held in partnership with the Ikebana Association of Brazil, the exhibition features special works, a permanent installation, and a parallel program that depict and unveil the details of this philosophy, also known as Kado—literally 'ka' (flowers) and 'do' (path).
Brought to Brazil by Japanese immigrants, the art of Ikebana is directly linked to other traditions encompassed by the DŌ philosophy, such as Chado (Tea), Kodo (Incense), and Budo (martial arts), among others. Rich in symbolism, with heaven, earth, and humanity as its focal points, its harmonic composition brings together rhythm, color, and linearity in a single arrangement. It is said that the act of placing a flower vertically when creating an arrangement dates back to the ancient belief that the gods descend to Earth through this upright flower.
