Above:  Szentendre, Hungary, 1998.

Yokugetsu was the flower name chosen for Douglas.  Its strength is in the moon over the valley, between the mountains.

First Exhibition, Yokohama, 1990

Above and Below:  Exhibition arrangements by Yogetsu Sensei 

I have had three positive influences in the Ikebana world.  First and foremost my Sensei, Hangetsu Yamamoto (d. 2015), inspired me to take the challenges of Ikebana seriously. She has granted me the opportunity, support, and respect, to have the confidence as an Ikebana artist, and teacher.  During her five years of tuition, she encouraged me to achieve to the highest degree while reserving a tender word for me when I was feeling the challenge of the moment.   We became the closest of friends. I also admired her sister, Saigetsu (1905-2006), the founder of the school in 1935. She was my examiner and critic who encouraged me while earning each step of my certification.  It was a priviledge to have met Saigetsu's husband as well.  On occasion, Mr. Mori (1913-2002) who was then head of the Enshu School, would take the time to give me quiet lessons on the finest points of Ikebana.  I will never forget their kindness and understated wisdom.

Kofu Symbol

Mr. Mori's Fuji creation ; Bronze Turtle vase.

Mr. Mori ; Traditional Seika Form

Enshu symbol

The work of Mr. Isshin Mori, Head of Enshu School until 1996.

My graduation as Yokugetsu, 1990.

World International Ikbana Exhibition, Yokohama, 2001.

Graduation 1990: Mr. Mori (centre), Saigetsu (right), Hangetsu (second right), Douglas (far right).

Arrangement, 2017.