Reiko Kawamura- Grandmaster of the Ohara School of Ikebana

Reiko Kawamura was born in Tokyo Japan. Her passion for Ohara Ikebana began while she was in her 20’s. She attended an exhibition by the 3rd Headmaster Houn Ohara; "I was amazed by the powerful arrangements he had made," she remarked, after. In 1964, shortly after arriving in the United States, she began to teach and give demonstrations. Finally settling in Los Angeles, she quickly became involved with both the Ohara Chapter and the Ikebana International Chapter.

For 37 years, starting in 1979, Reiko taught Ohara Ikebana classes at the Los Angeles County Arboretum. In addition to her classes at the Arboretum, she taught weekly classes at her studio in San Gabriel as well as teaching at the South Coast Botanical Gardens in San Pedro. She traveled throughout the United States giving demonstrations and workshops.

Reiko dedicated over 60 years of her life to learning, teaching, and sharing the beauty of Ohara Ikebana. She was a gifted demonstrator and teacher. She was an elegant, talented, and humble artist which was reflected in her floral art. Grandmaster Kawamura's love of Ohara Ikebana continues in each person she taught, in everyone who saw her demonstrations, and anyone who stood in front of her arrangements.

She was, is, and always will be an incredible sensei, mentor, and friend.

Sunday, June 19, 2022 - Reiko Kawamura Memorial

Ohara Workshop and Reception

Ikebana International Los Angeles Chapter 4 members and Reiko's family gathered at the Los Angeles County Arboretum honor here. The day began with an Ohara workshop led by Reiko's student, Jose Salcedo.

See Workshop Photos here >>

Tree Dedication Ceremony

A chionanthus retusus (Chinese Fringe Tree) near the Arboretum entrance was selected by committee members. A plaque was also unveiled with a dedication, "In Memory of Reiko Kawamura. Beloved Sensei, Mentor, Friend." Under the tree canopy, everyone spent time sharing their Reiko memories and stories. Our Chapter is grateful to the generosity and continued support of the Kawamura family for spending the afternoon with us. Considerable thanks also must be extended to the planning committee who put this lovely event together: Armando, Cynthia and Jose.