Ichigo Ichie [一期一會, Seasonal Tea Gathering Through the Twelve Months] is a Japanese tea ceremony theory course.
Through tea gatherings arranged according to the seasonal calendar, participants explore the meaning of delicately expressing the beauty of each season and sharing joy through tea between host and guest.
Rooted in classical traditions, the course also examines the East Asian aesthetic values that seek harmony between nature and humanity through tea.
During our tea gathering lesson this past January, we learned about Gu-gu Sohando (九九消寒圖), the tradition of counting the eighty-one days from the winter solstice while waiting for spring.
A dear acquaintance carefully painted eighty-one plum blossoms for us, and together with companions who have shared this journey for over two years, we joyfully colored each blossom one by one.
Even amidst the harsh cold, we reflected upon the wisdom and spirit of our ancestors, who found the signs of spring within plum blossoms and never lost warm hope while enduring the season of waiting.
We sincerely thank Professor Park Jeon-yeol for sharing profound teachings in every class, and all those who contributed their hearts to completing this beautiful work together.
Like plum blossoms that endure the severe winter before blooming, we hope the new year begins with warmth and fragrance.
睱 茶