Henna is the ancient art of using a natural temporary dye to colour hair, skin or nails. This workshop will explain the history and significance of henna in Palestinian culture today. Your teacher will then guide you to create your own design and help you to paint it on yourself or a willing volunteer.

To make the ink, artists use a paste made from dried henna leaves. The leaves of the henna plant are crushed and mixed with different fluids in order to make a creamy paste. This has developed into an intricate art resulting in beautiful and unique patterns being created. The origin of henna dates back to ancient Egyptian times and is popular in many parts of the world including Africa, the Middle East, India and Pakistan.

In Palestine, henna plays an important role in traditional weddings. It is customary for the bride to hold a Henna Party the night before her wedding attended by all female relatives and close friends. During this ceremony henna is placed on the hands and feet of the bride according to different patterns and designs. It is likely that the western ‘hen party’ was named after this tradition.

Come and learn for yourself how to create this beautiful artform!