THE SPACE THAT CONNECTS
A HANDS-ON 5-DAY WORKSHOP
EXPLORING EMPTY SPACE
INSIDE AN HISTORICAL CHURCH
AUGUST 15TH TO 19TH 2025
FOR ARTISTS AND IKEBANISTS
When Space Becomes Presence
This 5-day immersive workshop explores Ma within the powerful interior of a historic church. Ma is the Japanese concept of empty space that is not empty, but charged — the meaningful interval that gives form, rhythm, and relationship to what surrounds it.
The goal is not intellectual understanding, but integration. By the end of the workshop, Ma becomes something you can feel, recognize, and apply with confidence inside architectural space.
What You Will Learn:
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How Ma functions differently inside an enclosed architectural space
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How scale, height, and light influence perception
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How to recognize Ma in rhythm, timing, and spatial tension
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How to train your eye and body to sense harmony or imbalance in large interiors
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How to consciously integrate Ma into monumental installations
You will work together with an international group of artists and ikebanists to transform the interior of Sint-Pieters Church into a contemplative installation landscape. Together we create large-scale works that respond to columns, altar, height, shadow, and silence.
Your work will be included in the exhibition THE SPACE THAT CONNECTS at the end of August, where the church interior becomes a place of encounter, dialogue, and reflection.
LAST YEAR IMPRESSION
Meet Your Instructor | Ilse Beunen
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36 Years of Practising ikebana
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26+ Years of Certified Teaching Experience
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Trained in Japan: She spent 11 years mastering Sogetsu Ikebana while living in Japan.
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Author of Two Books: Exploring Ikebana and Inspiring Ikebana.
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Global Recognition: Awarded the Sogetsu 90th Anniversary Commemorative Overseas Award
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Sogetsu Excellence Award 2026: For the Summer Workshops and Exhibition MOVE! in 2025.
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Trusted by Thousands: Over 40,000 followers on Facebook and 17,000 newsletter subscribers
Limited Spots for Personalized Attention
With a maximum of 6 participants, this intensive workshop ensures personalized guidance and ample opportunity to explore and master new techniques.
Don't wait too long before booking.
Your workshop fee covers
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Daily lunch and beverages to keep you energized
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Teaching and exhibition fees
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A professional photo of your installation, perfect for your portfolio
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We provide the materials for creating your installation
PRICE: 650 €
FAQ'S | FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What do I need to bring? You don't have to bring anything. We have scissors, containers, drills, basically all material necessary.
Does it matter which school I follow? It doesn't matter from which ikebana school you are, every style is welcome.
I am an artist and have no ikebana experience. Can I participate? Sure we had artists successfully participate before.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations up to 8 weeks before the workshop: full refund.
Between 8 and 4 weeks: 50% refund.
Less than 4 weeks before the workshop: no refund.
MOVE! 2025
Essential Workshop Information
Spaces are limited—secure your spot now and be part of this transformative experience.
Workshop Locations & Schedule
August 15-16 (Sat & Sun) – Antwerp Atelier: Onafhankelijkheidslaan 5, B-2020 Antwerp – Preparation phase
August 17-19 (Mon-Wed) – Sint-Pieters Church: Pl. Cardinal Mercier 51, 1090 Jette – Installation phase
Time
Daily from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (but expect to stay later—enthusiasm tends to extend our days!)
Accommodation Advice
If traveling from abroad, book a hotel or B&B near the Antwerp Atelier, as we will travel together to the church during the last three days.
Sign up today and become part of 'THE SPACE BETWEEN US!'
PRICE: 650 €
