Under the Tuscan Sun

A sunflower filled field, rows of cypress trees and the medieval hilltop village taken from the passenger seat of Laura's car en route to Fiesole...

The Way of Ikebana, Rockwell

This traditional Japanese way of flower arranging dates back to the 15th Century under the Shogan rule.  It follows the minimalist principles in a sense that it draws attention to shape, line and form as opposed to the arrangement of blooms. The usually unnoticed parts of the flower, such as its leaves and stems, are the mediums used for creative and spiritual expression.  The disciplined art form symbolizes the harmony among heaven, earth and man.  It is a Japanese custom that the women of the upper class are schooled for this art (along with calligraphy and tea ceremonies) in preparation for marriage.  Therefore, Ikebana is also known as "cha bana" meaning "tea flowers."    To date, this somewhat avant-guarde three-dimensional art form is still highly regarded and being practiced in Japan.

(photo credit:  Jocelyn Zayco)

Communing With Nature, Makati

 

Greenbelt Park, located in the heart of the commercial district (and shopping mall!), is the best place to surround yourself with beauty and get some quiet time in the midst of all the holiday shopping frenzy.   Sculptural works of various local artists embrace the lagoon within this three hectare oasis. There are over fifteen species of palm trees including Royal, Triangle, Date and Foxtail Palms...just to name a few! One can also find over twenty-five tree varieties consisting of Acacia, Red Ficus, Ponytail, Gmelina, several species of Fig, Fire and Butterfly Trees.  The twice awarded six-themed tropical gardens, The Orchid Garden being one of my faves, received international acclaim for its landscape design.