What is "oshibana"

Oshibana is the art of using pressed flowers and other botanical materials to create an entire picture from these natural elements. This foliage, including whole flowers, petals, leaves and varied organic pieces, are pressed until dry and flat, using a variety of pressing methods. These elements are then used to "paint" an artistic composition. The origin of this art form has been traced to 16th century Japan, but it is now practiced worldwide. The resulting artwork is referred to as an Oshibana.