We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ayako Shida a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Ayako, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I first knew I wanted to pursue a creative path when I started working with flowers. In Japan, my focus was on creating arrangements based on customer preferences, which taught me the importance of tailored designs but didn’t fully satisfy my creative instincts. In 2019, I moved to New York to explore new artistic experiences. There, I was inspired by the freedom and individuality in floral design, which led me to embrace a more creative, experimental approach.

In 2023, I began focusing on my passion for fresh flowers, aiming to capture their natural beauty in unique arrangements. While I’m still exploring, this journey of creativity feels more aligned with my true artistic vision, and I’m excited to continue evolving as I celebrate 20 years in flower industry in 2025.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am an artist specializing in ikebana, the Japanese art of floral arrangement. While ikebana traditionally celebrates the beauty of flowers as they are, my approach goes beyond simply arranging plants to resemble their natural environment. I strive to create entirely new forms—transforming the materials into something unique that didn’t exist in their original state.

With experience working with clients, I enjoy the process of understanding their wishes and bringing their visions to life. Whether it’s a custom arrangement or a creative project, I take pride in crafting works that are both beautiful and meaningful.

What sets me apart is my blend of tradition and innovation. I respect the natural beauty of flowers but aim to push boundaries, creating something surprising and inspiring. My work invites people to see nature in a new light—through imaginative and heartfelt designs.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Books and art book by Teshigawara Sofu, the first master of the Sogetsu Ikebana, can bring new insights each time. Sofu was not only the founder of the Sogetsu School but also a visionary whose artistic perspectives and philosophy went far beyond mere technical approaches. He deeply explored the dialogue between flowers, life, and nature through his art.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I teach ikebana classes to share the beauty and joy of this art form. to help others connect with nature, foster creativity, and experience the mindfulness that comes with arranging flowers.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ikebanasuiryu.heads-dev-php8.com/
• Instagram: ikebana_suiryu