3 days ago
Floral artist fuses Ikebana with musical motifs
For over five decades, Muscat has been home to Devyani Sampat, a name that has quietly but elegantly blossomed in the Sultanate's artistic circles.
A devoted practitioner of Ikebana — the refined Japanese art of flower arrangement — Devyani has spent more than 20 years translating emotion and inspiration into vibrant floral compositions, crafting not merely bouquets but meaningful expressions of life, rhythm, and culture.
Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging, has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. Originating from Buddhist rituals, it evolved into an art form that emphasises harmony, balance, and simplicity. Its techniques emphasize minimalism and the natural beauty of flowers, stems, and leaves, often involving asymmetrical compositions that reflect the changing seasons and natural landscapes. Over the centuries, Ikebana has grown in popularity beyond Japan, recognised worldwide as a profound form of artistic expression and a meditative practice. Its global appeal lies in its capacity to foster mindfulness and artistic creativity, making it a fascinating method that combines aesthetics, philosophy, and a deep connection to nature. Today, Ikebana continues to evolve, integrating contemporary styles while honouring traditional principles, and remains an inspiring practice for many international flower enthusiasts.
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
In Oman, this passion for floral artistry is mirrored in the flourishing flower shop scene that has seen significant growth in recent years. The increasing popularity of floristry can be attributed to Oman's vibrant cultural landscape and a rising middle class eager to express personal style and hospitality through flowers. Small boutique florists and large floral chains now dot cities like Muscat and Salalah, offering everything from traditional Omani arrangements to modern bouquets. These shops often source local blooms, such as desert roses, Jasmine, and frangipani, blending native flora with imported varieties to create diverse and culturally resonant displays.
The intricacies involved in Oman's floral trade reflect a deep appreciation of colour, seasonality, and symbolism. For instance, the use of specific flowers during festivals or weddings carries cultural significance; white flowers may symbolize purity, while marigolds are used in celebratory arrangements. Many shop owners and floral designers pride themselves on their ability to curate bespoke arrangements that honour Omani traditions while embracing contemporary trends. Training and mentorship programmes are increasingly popular, helping elevate the skill level of budding florists and ensuring the preservation of intricate, culturally meaningful techniques.
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
Devyani Sampat's journey is a testament to this cultural richness, as her floral artistry intertwines Western techniques with local influences, demonstrating the growing global interconnectedness of floral design.
At the heart of her vision lies a commitment to fostering creativity and cultural exchange through floral design. Her latest initiative—a thematic arrangement session hosted at her Shatti al Qurum residence—reflected this ethos beautifully.
Titled 'The Music of Flowers,' the exhibition saw her Frangipani Flower Arrangement Group reimagine musical instruments such as the tabla, violin, flute, sarangi, and keyboard using floral foam and delicate petals. Around 20 flower enthusiasts participated in the session with great enthusiasm. Some pieces ingeniously incorporated everyday objects: an old CD cover was transformed into a textured base using strips of Washington Palm leaf, woven through a traditional technique.
Unlike conventional exhibitions, the arrangements were crafted by members from their homes and later displayed collectively — a gesture that underlined the group's belief in collaborative learning. The interactive nature of the session saw participants not only presenting their work but also exchanging insights and techniques in a vibrant environment of mutual appreciation and discovery.
Devyani, who has been teaching Ikebana in Muscat for over a decade and heading the Frangipani Flower Arrangement Group since 2009, believes that floral art is not simply decorative — it is a way to connect with nature and community. Her creative sessions often revolve around unifying themes, and a new exhibit inspired by Omani cultural elements is already in the works for November.
'Knowledge should flow like a river, not remain stagnant like a pond,' she says — a philosophy she brings to life through every petal, stem, and structure she teaches. Her approach is rooted in nurturing creativity, compassion, and harmony, all essential tenets of Ikebana.
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
The Music of Flowers session held at the Muscat residence of Devyani Sampat
A senior educator in the Sogetsu School of Ikebana, Devyani's journey in floristry began under the gentle guidance of the late Smt Leela Rajkumar. Since then, her artistry has taken root and flourished under the mentorship of international masters such as Poo (Thailand), Lesley (UK), Maryfransko (France), and Ms Madhu Shah (Australia). She has also mastered European floral techniques, which she shares during demonstrations and classes held both in the Sultanate of Oman and India.
Beyond her teaching, Devyani has participated in global floral shows and is an active member of the world's foremost floral associations, including NAFA (National Association of Flower Arrangers), WAFA (World Association of Floral Artists), and the World Flower Council. Her involvement in these organisations not only broadens her artistic horizons but also allows her to bring international techniques and trends back to Oman, enriching the local floral culture.
For Devyani, flowers are more than botanical beauties — they are a medium to interpret stories, emotions, and even melodies. Her dedication exemplifies how floral design can be a conduit for personal expression and cultural storytelling. She passionately advocates for the notion that floral artistry can unite communities, foster mindfulness, and celebrate cultural heritage.
Oman's floral scene is also experiencing a renaissance driven by younger entrepreneurs who are blending traditional Omani motifs with contemporary floral styles. The rise of flower cafés and experiential floral workshops reflects a broader trend towards integrating nature-based art into daily life. These endeavours often incorporate local flora and craftsmanship, reinforcing the Sultanate's unique cultural identity.
As Oman's cultural and artistic scene continues to bloom, Devyani's flower-led initiatives serve as a reminder of the intrinsic beauty and cultural symbolism within floral arrangements. Whether through the delicate lines of Ikebana, the vibrant bursts of celebratory bouquets, or community workshops that bring people together in creative expression, her work exemplifies how nature can be a powerful medium for storytelling, connection, and artistic exploration.
