Jamaica and Japan have enjoyed diplomatic relations for 58 years. The first Embassy of Jamaica in Tokyo, Japan, was opened on February 17, 1992, and the first Japanese resident ambassador in Kingston was appointed in March 1995.

This friendship between the cultures even resulted in Jamaican florist Pearl Wright enjoying years on television teaching Jamaicans the art of Ikebana. Fun fact: Wright was the first Jamaican to receive the Japanese Order of the Rising Sun Gold and Silver Rays award.

Ikebana, meaning living flowers, is a centuries-old Japanese art of arranging flowers. Ikebana is an art in Japan in the same sense that painting and sculpture are artistic expressions.

The non-profit organisation Ikebana International Jamaica – St Andrew Chapter 156 was established a decade after Independence and celebrated its Golden Jubilee last month.

SO spotlights the calming practice of Ikebana and how it reflects the relationship between Jamaica and Japan.