Discover the Japanese art of kokedama (moss ball) in this engaging summer workshop designed to spark your botanical creativity – no experience required! The practice emerged from the traditional art of bonsai and the Edo-period (1603–1868) method of nearai, or root washing, in which plants were displayed without pots and their roots were wrapped in moss to retain moisture. Based on the practical needs of urban gardeners with limited space, this art form transforms simple materials – soil, moss, and plants – into living sculptures that embody the simplicity, balance, and harmony for nature that are key elements of Japanese aesthetics. This relaxing practice encourages mindfulness and creativity while providing a tactile connection to Japanese botanical traditions that have been passed down through generations.
In collaboration with Angeluck, a wellness-focused organization that is dedicated to nature-based cultural experiences, this workshop introduces both the technique and philosophy of kokedama. Under the guidance of Takeshi Nakamura, participants will learn how to carefully bind moss, shape soil, and wrap roots to create their own “living artwork” to take home.
Join us for a relaxing summer evening of mindful creativity and cultural discovery. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, art lover, or curious beginner, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japanese tradition while crafting something beautiful.
All materials provided (plants, plates, rocks, moss, take-home containers), but participants are encouraged to bring their own hand towel.
About the Instructor
Takeshi Nakamura
Born in 1963, Takeshi Nakamura began his floral career at the Florist Training Institute in Tokyo. He has received numerous accolades in Japan, including gold prizes from the Japan Flower Network and the Nippon Flower Designers’ Association, and earned certification in the Ikenobo school of traditional Japanese flower arrangement before moving to the United States in 1987. In 1989, he studied in the Netherlands under renowned floral designer and …
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two-time world champion Mr. Pitt Vandelburg. The following year, he opened his first flower shop on Melrose Avenue in Hollywood. Since then, Nakamura has worked with a wide range of clients—including American and Japanese celebrities—helping bring their floral visions to life.
