David Payne opened Payne and Morrison Florists in 1964 and shortly thereafter his interest in the Ikebana style began. For those of you that are not familiar with Ikebana it is a Japanese style of flower design. It developed from a need to show ones faith in heaven by offering arranged flowers at the temple. There are three main lines that represent heaven, man and earth. The use of form, rhythm, color and texture guide how the three main lines are arranged. Although there are strict guidelines to Ikebana, over the centuries many sub-styles have developed to allow broader expression. Windblown, Floating and Freestyle are a few of the sub-styles that have become popular. David heard of a class for florists in Phoenix being taught on Japanese design. He signed himself up and “arm-twisted” his designers into attending. They turned out to be seven of the ten students. Dave was the only student to continue after the first unit. He eventually became an instructor himself and over the years has helped develop the Ikebana culture in Arizona. He even designed the Ikebana displays at the Phoenix Art Museum for many years.
Today Payne and Morrison Florists remains one of the best Phoenix area flower shops to order Ikebana arrangements from. You can find a “freestyle” arrangement on the web site now but soon there will be a tab just for Ikebana.
Please stop by Payne and Morrison Florists in Phoenix or go to http://www.payneandmorrison.com/ .