October: Henna/ Mehndi Art

Heena or Mehndi has been around for 5,000 years! Originating from Egypt, the art has spread across all continents and has evolved to meet cultures and social environments. In Malaysia, the art form of Henna shows great influence from India with   the artform being used to adorn women’s palms, arms and feet as part of wedding celebrations believably to bring luck and joy to the bride.  Nowadays it is a fashion statement revered by many, cutting across beliefs and backgrounds.

Today, our class discussed and learnt to draw the three traditional motifs in henna art - the Tree, Paisley and Floret. Using the three motifs, the students were asked to mix and decorate the motifs onto their hand prints. Next, our students were asked to create their own motifs; based on their favourite things (to name a few; iron man, pony, princess, maths!) and applied in Henna art form.

Learning outcome: Learning the traditional art of Henna/Mehndi, traditional motifs, creating their very own motifs