These flowers and leaves will be the inspiration for new works that explore the collecting impulse that has driven plant-hunters across continents throughout modern history. Other oshibana themes explored in the exhibition are more traditionally Japanese, such as the changing of the seasons, the representation of Mount Fuji or the spirit world. There is no art that can surpass natural beauty. A more in-depth workshop will be led by the exhibiting artist on Wednesday 13 June from 2.30 4.30pm. This workshop will cover collecting and pressing techniques and participants will have the opportunity to make a small artwork under Nobuo s guidance.
All workshops are free.
Japan 2001 is a nationwide initiative to celebrate and expand the links between the UK and Japan and to introduce Japanese culture to a wider UK audience. The festival s joint patrons are HRH Prince of Wales and HIH Crown Prince of Japan. The Cambridge University Botanic Garden was opened to the public in 1846 by Professor John Stevens Henslow, who is best remembered for inspiring his pupil Charles Darwin with a love of natural history. With a framework of mature trees and shrubs, this paradise of plants comprises 40 acres of diverse, superbly landscaped settings, including the Rock Garden, the Glasshouses, the historic Systematic Beds, Scented Garden, Winter Garden and Ecological Area. The Garden welcomes around 100,000 visitors each year and is open from 10am 6pm in the summer months.