Thao Tran
Studio Director · Ikebana instructor
Thaonism
Thao’s practice begins with curiosity: looking closely at familiar plants, following the possibilities of each material, and leaving room for the unexpected. At When Still, she brings the same openness to her work behind the scenes and her conversations with students.
Background & Practice
Thao first encountered ikebana at six through her mother’s old books, though it seemed too traditional for her then. Years later, her first Sogetsu class with Nixon changed that impression, revealing a freedom to experiment that made her want to keep learning.
Before ikebana, she worked in business, marketing and creative advertising. Working with flowers brought together her enjoyment of shaping ideas and her wish to slow down and create for herself.
She lets the materials lead, often choosing ordinary plants that invite a second look. Craftsmanship, movement, negative space and the stories materials carry guide her work. She also values the connection between the hands that grow a flower, shape a vase and bring them together in an arrangement.
Approach to Teaching
For Thao, teaching is another way of learning. Students’ questions often prompt her to reconsider something she thought she understood. She values a studio community where people have room to grow in different ways.
Her own practice continues to teach her patience and an acceptance of imperfection. Flowers change, arrangements are temporary, and there is always something new to notice.
Selected Exhibitions
Exhibitions & Public Presentations
2026 · ONE, Union Square
2025 · Awakening – Khởi Sắc Khai Hoa, Rue Miche
2025 · Japan in Bloom, Chillala
2025 · Vietnam Flower Show, La Vella Hotel
2023–2024 · My Ikebana Diary, When Still
Workshops, Collaborations & Special Projects
2026 · Con Voi Bar Ceremony — floral design
2026 · Torinoa Restaurant — floral design
2026 · Rue Miche Tết Installation — project communications and floral design
2025 · Japanese Festival, Saigon Centre — project communications and coordination assistance
2025 · Lọ Stuff new product launch — floral design
2023–present · When Still events and projects — floral design, project communications and coordination assistance
Recognition
2025 · Sogetsu Excellence Award, Sogetsu Headquarters — recognition for When Still’s Awakening exhibition
