The ikebana exhibition "1001 Cranes," created by sensei Carole Sakata, starts today at Macy's in Ala Moana Center.

I first met Carole years ago at The Contemporary Museum, where her weekly floral arrangements have dazzled patrons. I immediately liked Carole, a gracious, humble and centered woman. Only later did I find out about her extraordinary, innate skill in taking plant and nonplant materials and reincarnating them as ethereal floral arrangements.

Born in Fukuoka, Japan, Carole began her ikebana training in 1983 at the Tokyo headquarters of the prestigious Sogetsu School. Founded by Sofu Teshigahara in 1927, Sogetsu is one of the three major schools of ikebana in Japan.

Master Sofu believed that ikebana should be a creative art medium that adapts to the evolving lifestyles of people, whether at work, home or recreation. He introduced a dynamic concept that remained rooted in traditional ikebana and Japanese culture but tailored itself to everyday facets of life. Subsequent evolutions incorporated contemporary art through geometrics, decals and sculptures, thrusting Sogetsu ikebana into the modern age.

The three-day show's name was inspired by Carole's father. For the past 25 years, he has made by hand thousands of miniature cranes as a volunteer with the Japan Muscular Dystrophy Association. It's his way of giving moral support for people in need. Some of his cranes are as tiny as a grain of rice.

In Hawai'i, many are aware that 1,000 cranes symbolize peace and happiness. This concept is what Carole shares in "1001 Cranes." The one extra crane symbolizes the additional step we must take to embrace peace in our individual lives.

This ikebana show will feature large-scale installations, utilizing bamboo work, dry materials, flowers and branches, reflecting various Sogetsu expressions.

Carole is now a teacher of Sogetsu ikebana. She has attained riji status, the school's highest level of teaching certification.

"1001 Cranes" epitomizes the soul and spirit of its creator. The visual extravaganza of line, mass and color evokes harmony, balance, texture and movement. Life is resurrected not only in the materials used but in the space and environment of its setting.

Pamper yourself, a loved one, family and friends with a visit to this mesmerizing ikebana exhibition by an artist whose talent is celestial, and whose humanity is down to earth.