The Bucharest Peony Study Group was founded in the autumn of 2024, part of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana and is the first and only one in Romania. Among the founding members are Andreea Georgescu, Second grade Sanyo Ikebana teacher, Gabriela Vardianu, a 4th grade Ikebana teacher, and Andreea Ciobotaru, a 4th grade Ikebana teacher.

The Sogetsu School of Ikebana was founded in 1927 by Sōfū Teshigahara who questioned the traditions of Ikebana in which people could not express their originality.

“Anytime, anywhere, by anyone” – and with any materials,

is the creed of the Sogetsu School.

Today, under the 4th Iemoto, Akane Teshigahara, the Sogetsu Ikebana is known as a school that draws out the freedom of expression in each individual, always new, always beautiful, and never constrained by preconceptions.

The current coordinator of the study group’s activities and events is Andreea Georgescu. Her passion for Ikebana began 20 years ago and she is now a Second grade Sanyo Sogetsu teacher, making part of the Sogetsu Teachers’ Association. She has been involved in promoting Japanese culture since 2005 alongside the “Angela Hondru” Romanian-Japanese Study Center.

Mrs. Georgescu has organized a plethora of events such as exhibitions, including at the National Museum of Art of Romania, the Museum of the Romanian Peasant, Transilvania International Film Festival and Cărturești, charity events and workshops. She has also been invited by both the Embassy of Japan in Romania and the Embassy of Romania in Japan to give Ikebana demonstrations for various projects.

Her artistic philosophy reflects the depth of her dedication. When asked what advice she would give to someone passionate about Ikebana, she shared:

“Always carry flowers in your soul, seek inner peace while arranging them,

practice constantly, search for new ideas, and, last but not least, seek professional guidance.”

This perspective defines her approach to Ikebana, one rooted in discipline, creativity, and continuous growth.

Our group is formed by dedicated and enthusiastic people, united by their love for Ikebana. Through demonstrations, workshops, exhibitions and collaborative projects, we aim not only to refine our skills but to share our passion with the community, allowing the art of flowers to blossom around us.

Welcoming members of all levels, we gather to learn, practice, and exchange ideas in the spirit of Sogetsu. We are looking forward to connecting with Ikebana artists from all around the world, and to spread the beauty of Ikebana in new and inspiring ways.