When founded in Tokyo, Japan, in 1956 by the late Ellen Gordon Allen, her dream was to create an organization uniting the people of the world through their mutual love of nature and enjoyment of Ikebana. That dream has now spread to 60 countries with 165 chapters, and membership numbering over 8,500.

The Seattle Chapter 19, chartered March 16, 1959, is dedicated to cultivating and perpetuating the study of Ikebana by demonstrations and public exhibitions, with a deep purpose of establishing a better relationship among all people. The chapter is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2019.

Seattle Chapter includes members from the following Ikebana schools:  Hua Yuan, Ichiyo, Ikenobo, Koenshu, Koryu, Ohara, Ryusei-Ha, Saga Goryu, Senke, Senke Seishin, Shofu-Ryu, Shofu-Kadokai, Sogetsu, Wafu and Yushoryu.  Some of the schools focus on classic styles, others are contemporary and creative.  Each school is different, but shares its history, inspiration, philosophy, style and techniques.  There are teachers in the different schools available throughout the Greater Seattle area.

Members of I.I. participate in world conventions, regional conferences and chapter meetings.  Our activities include demonstration of flower arranging, exhibitions, lectures/programs on related arts, tours, and workshops where one can study Ikebana under the direction of various school Masters.  Our public exhibitions include Northwest Flower and Garden Show in February, Cherry Blossom Festival in April, Annual Exhibition in May and Japan Fair in September.  Each local school also hold its own exhibitions.  Our members voluntarily place ikebana arrangements at the Seattle Art Museum and the Seattle Asian Art Museum year ’round.