Fusion Flowers Magazine

Ikebana Today - 208 pages Hardback Written in English Published 2007 by Stichting Kunstboek Photography - various 

In the preface to this mighty book, Mit Ingelaere-Brandt briefly explains the thoughts behind the art of Ikebana and also gives brief accounts of the various schools: Ikenobo, Ohara, Sogetsu and Ichiyo.  From there on in - it is a fresh design and photograph on every page and each page includes details of the designer, their country and the school of Ikebana.

The publishers have used a tried and tested formula of inviting participants from around the world to send in contributions (15 countries participated).  The featured works are therefore from designers whose work uses local nature to produce their arrangements. 

There is no doubt that some of the designs are classical in nature and style but I am certain that others would be welcomed in many modern art galleries around the world.  Although there are sadly no details of the techniques which the various designers have employed, there are occasional pieces that could be adapted or adopted for contemporary design.  Much of the work is sufficiently interesting to warrant further inspection. 

There is a directory of contributors giving details of the pages that feature their work together with some botanical information on materials used (which is on a few occasions, a little sketchy).  The photography is very good.  

Price inclusive of post & packing