Born in Tokyo, Japan, Reiko Nakajima began studying Sogetsu School of Ikebana in 1980, and became an instructor of the form in 1984. Shortly thereafter, she immigrated to the United States and started teaching here in 1989. She earned the first degree Instructor of Sogetsu School in 1990 and was one of the founders of Pittsburgh Sogetsu Study Group, which was established that same year. From September 1996 to August 1998, she served as president of Ikebana International Pittsburgh Chapter. Currently she is the chairman of Pittsburgh Sogetsu Study Group. In March 2007, she received Japan’s Sogetsu School’s “Oversea Award”.

Reiko Nakajima and Atsumi Sewell have exhibited and demonstrated at private galleries and restaurants. Their work in arts, academic and public institutions includes The Andy Warhol Museum, The Pittsburgh Center For the Arts, The David L, Lawrence Pittsburgh Convention Center Home and Garden Show, The Pittsburgh Glass Center, Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, The Pittsburgh High School For the Creative and Performing Arts.