The story of this exhibition is a tapestry woven with surprises, challenges, and affirmations that when one truly desires something, it will inevitably come to fruition.

Mishel Newall and I had been diligently preparing for our inaugural joint exhibition of ikebana and ceramics, scheduled to grace the halls of Odesa in April 2022. 

Countless hours were dedicated to curating a collection of exquisite vases, meticulously designing the museum space, conceptualizing the theme, and crafting captivating compositions.

However, destiny had a different narrative in store for our collection and exhibition. Unexpectedly and contrary to our plans, a twist of fate unfolded, throwing obstacles and trials in our path.

As the world knows, the war erupted in Ukraine, forcing us to flee our homes and leave behind fragments of our lives in Odesa.

Yet, there is a flame that perpetually burns within us—the irrepressible yearning and necessity to create, to forge opportunities for artistic expression.

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True dreams always come true.

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That opportunity presented itself in the form of an exhibition in Kyoto.

Carefully packed, the vases embarked on a transcontinental journey to Japan. Some, unfortunately, succumbed to the perils of the road, requiring delicate repair—a reflection of the mending of our own hearts. However, through collective efforts and the unwavering support of those who stood beside us, an extraordinary exhibition of ikebana and ceramics materialized in October—a momentous and deeply profound occasion for Mishel and me.