About Us

Ikebana International 

Ikebana International is a cultural organization devoted to developing an appreciation for the art  of Japanese flower arranging. At present, there are over one hundred and seventy chapters in  over fifty countries. The Chicago Ikebana International Chapter was organized in September of  1959, and since then, has been actively supporting the ideas of the organization under its motto: “Friendship Through Flowers” 

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Ikebana International Chicago Chapter #27 

The Chicago Chapter of Ikebana International was founded in 1959. It began as a grassroots effort organized by Mary Takahashi through the encouragement of Ikebana International founder, Ellen Gordon Allen.  By October of 1959, the Chapter was officially recognized by Ikebana International as Chapter #27.

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The members would meet on a regular basis, forming friendships and sharing the same goal, to promote the Art. Chapter members do not belong to any one school or practice one Ikebana style. We are a consortium of many Ikebana schools. As a result, each artist's individuality is appreciated and respected because each artist brings something new to the table.

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Through our Ikebana exhibitions, demonstrations and workshops we enhance the relationship between different people by cultivating international understanding and goodwill.

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Ikebana International Chicago Chapter #27 
Board of Directors 
2024 - 2025

 
President: Yuko Inoue-Darcy  
1st Vice President/Programs: Hiroko Yamada, Leigh Levine
2nd Vice President/Membership: Minhua Liu
Treasurer: Paula Danoff  
Corresponding Secretary/Tokyo Liaison: Teresa Kennedy  
Recording Secretary: Laureen Escobar

Advisor to New Board Members: Shelley Galloway

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