The celebrations featured Grand Master Akane Teshigahara and also commemorated the 60th anniversary of Singapore-Japan diplomatic relations.
The Singapore Sogetsu Association commemorated its 60th anniversary with a Charity Gala Dinner on 18 July and the launch of “Kodo 2026” (Pulsation) at Gardens by the Bay on 19 July. The celebrations also coincided with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Japan. Ambassador Ishikawa Hiroshi and Madam Ishikawa Yuko attended both events.
The Charity Gala Dinner featured a live ikebana demonstration by Akane Teshigahara, Grand Master of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana, who travelled from Japan for the anniversary celebrations. In his congratulatory remarks, Ambassador Ishikawa commended the Singapore Sogetsu Association’s dedication to promoting the Japanese art of ikebana in Singapore over the past six decades. Proceeds from the gala will be donated to Club Rainbow Singapore, which supports children and youths living with chronic illnesses, disabilities and special needs.
The following day, Ambassador Ishikawa attended the launch of Kodo 2026 (Pulsation), a large-scale bamboo installation by Akane Teshigahara at Gardens by the Bay. Created to commemorate the Singapore Sogetsu Association’s Diamond Jubilee and the 60th anniversary of Singapore-Japan diplomatic relations, the artwork drew inspiration from Singapore’s vibrant energy and cityscape. The title Kodo, meaning “heartbeat” or “pulsation”, symbolises the living energy running through every stalk of bamboo. According to the Embassy of Japan in Singapore, it is the artist’s first major bamboo installation in Asia outside Japan.
In his remarks, Ambassador Ishikawa described bamboo as a symbol of flexibility, resilience and rapid growth, drawing a parallel with the enduring friendship between Singapore and Japan. He also thanked Gardens by the Bay for its continued partnership in presenting ikebana displays and the annual Sakura exhibition. Kodo 2026 is on display at the Baobabs in the Flower Dome until 26 August 2026.
Source: Embassy of Japan in Singapore
