The project delves into the profound intersection of ethnobotanical knowledge, cultural well-being practices, and the art of Ikebana. Ethnobotanical studies illuminate the global recognition of herbal bathing as a healing practice deeply ingrained in diverse cultures. Emphasising its dual impact on physical and psychological well-being, the narrative unfolds within the historical context of The Wash Houses, the oldest public washing facility in London since 1847.
Leung’s Ikebana performance embarks on a journey through ethnobotanical wisdom, unveiling the interconnectedness of human societies, plant ecosystems, and ancient well-being practices. It weaves a historical tapestry, intertwining cultural traditions and botanical insights, elucidating the intrinsic relationship between ethnobotanical knowledge and herbal bathing practices across cultures and time.
At the same time, it acts as a nuanced lens, exploring the shared heritage of botanical wisdom and cultural well-being rituals. Through the integration of medicinal herbs, it transcends traditional aesthetic boundaries, offering a contemporary discourse on the ecological and therapeutic aspects of plant life. Collaborating with the Chelsea Physics Garden, the research meticulously examines each herb for its visual charm and historical-cultural significance in traditional medicine, creating intentional narratives embedded in Ikebana arrangements.
The Ikebana performance transforms into an ode to cultural narratives, becoming a vessel for the transmission of collective knowledge related to plant-based healing, fostering a visual and conceptual dialogue across diverse cultural landscapes.
