Henna Art

The art of henna, or mehndi, is thousands of years old. A reddish dye extracted from the henna plant is applied, often with elaborate designs, to the hands and feet. Women across Africa, the Middle East, and India paint themselves with henna as part of social celebrations. In many cultures the bride is adorned with especially intricate patterns for her wedding night. The tattoo is temporary and usually lasts two weeks.

Erie now boasts several henna experts. Gannon has a large population of Indian students including several who are adept at henna. Erie is also home to many Somali and Sudanese women who learned the art traditionally, from other women, in their native countries.

On Saturday, April 5 from 1–4 p.m. you are invited to a henna workshop, to learn about henna, meet some of Erie’s finest practitioners, get a beautiful henna tattoo of your own, or learn how to apply the paste yourself. You’ll also meet friendly women from Africa and Asia, and hear how they’ve grown up with the henna tradition. Please register in advance by calling the Museum. The cost is $12 ($10 museum members) and includes all supplies.

Contact Museum Folk Art Coordinator, Kelly Armor for more information.