MILWAUKEE – Torii Gate Festival will celebrate the art of Japanese floral arrangement, June 3 and 4, from 9 a.m.–4 p.m., at The Mitchell Park Domes, 524 S. Layton Blvd.
Named for the traditional Japanese gate marking the entrance to a shrine, Torii Gate Festival will use a classic red wooden gate as a focal point in the display area for ikebana floral arrangements. Ikebana arrangements are steeped in the philosophy of developing a closeness between nature and humanity.
Milwaukee Chapter 22 of Ikebana International, in partnership with Friends of The Domes and the Milwaukee County Parks, will exhibit 30 floral arrangements with ikebana’s distinctive asymmetrical form and mindful use of empty space. Chapter members strive to create harmony between the materials they choose, the container, and the setting.
Advancing “Friendship through Flowers,” chapter members will guide visitors through a simple make-and-take design, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m., both days. Members will provide one-on-one instruction. To cover the cost of materials, a donation is appreciated.
Admission, which includes the Torii Gate Festival, is $7 for adults age 18 and up; $5 for Milwaukee County Seniors with ID, persons with disabilities, students of any age with ID, and youth age 6–17; and free for children age 5 and under.