Ikebana Workshop with Laurel Fooks

Join us for a unique and immersive workshop inspired by the special exhibition Kimono: The Triumph of Japanese Dress. This hands-on session will explore the art of Japanese flower arrangement known as Ikebana. Participants will learn the principles of Ikebana, focusing on balance, simplicity, and the harmonious use of line and space, while drawing inspiration from the rich history and intricate patterns of traditional Japanese garments.  

Whether you’re a beginner or have experience with Ikebana, this workshop offers an opportunity to connect with nature, explore cultural traditions, and express your artistic vision. The workshop includes demonstration, instruction, and feedback. Each participant will leave with a beautifully crafted Ikebana arrangement.  

[SOLD OUT] Ikebana Workshop with Laurel Fooks 
Saturday, May 10, 2025
10:00 AM–1:00 PM
Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg
255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg FL 33701

Recommended for ages 18+. Pre-registration required. Limited spots are available. $50 for Members; $65 for Not-Yet-Members. Tickets include admission to the MFA.  

REGISTER

Not yet a member?
Become a member today and enjoy all the benefits membership at the MFA offers! 

MFA Members enjoy free admission for an entire year, early access to special exhibitions, discounts at the MFA Shop and Café Clementine, special member-only exclusive events, and more. Bring the whole family!

BECOME A MEMBER

ABOUT LAUREL BANBARA FOOKS, 2ND LEVEL, 3RD GRADE INSTRUCTOR, NARA NO SHOU 

Laurel Banbara Fooks had her initial ikebana lessons as a child in Japan with Bansui Ohta-sensei headmaster of Shofu Ryu, the origin of Banmi Shofu School.  Her mother is the first generation iemoto or headmaster of Banmi Shofu Ryu, Bessie Banmi Yoneko Fooks.  She gained her kado competence and artistry on Ichiyo Ikebana from Jeanne Holton-sensei; Sogetsu Ikebana from Monique Banrenke Noujaim; and Banmi Shofu from her mother, Bessie Banmi Fooks-sensei and Ric Bansho Carrasco-sensei. 

Laurel Banbara-sensei has exhibited for Ikebana International St. Petersburg Chapter 65 and Orlando Winter Park Chapter 132, and has demonstrated and exhibited every year during the annual exhibition of Chapter 65, Art in Bloom and the Imagine Museum.  She has participated in just about every demonstration of Banmi Shofu Ryu, including Ikebana International Chapters 1 in Washington DC, 132 in Orlando Winter Park, 115, Sarasota, Naples and multiple garden Clubs.  She regularly exhibits her ikebana at The Burg, her son’s auto shop, the Suncoast Healing Arts, and the Veterinarian Healing Arts.