Ikebana = 3-D graphic art with live materials

I have touched slightly what ikebana is, together with its history. But I haven't described the definition of ikebana, have I?

Ikebana International website's definition seems to be most general, so let me quote it here.

"Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement. It is more than simply putting flowers in a container. It is a disciplined art form in which the arrangement is a living thing where nature and humanity are brought together. It is steeped in the philosophy of developing closeness with nature.

As is true of all other arts, ikebana is creative expression within certain rules of construction. Its materials are living branches, leaves, grasses, and blossoms. Its heart is the beauty resulting from color combinations, natural shapes, graceful lines, and the meaning latent in the total form of the arrangement. Ikebana is, therefore, much more than mere floral decoration. "

And let me add my own definition: 3-D graphic art with live materials.

When I encountered ikebana for the first time, it reminded me of geometry class in junior high school. Utilizing space that consists of X, Y, and Z axis, and combining different live materials (branches and flowers), you create something that never existed before.