Oakley Teens Learn About the Art and Culture of the Henna Tattoo

Oakley Public Library held a free gathering, graciously led by teen group members, the Jawed sisters, Sadaf and Tuba. They taught a hands on cultural and art lesson on the art of the henna tattoo. Following the brief introduction, the two young women guided a group of teens in creating their own temporary henna tattoos. They also modeled a traditional outfit during the tattoo session.

Henna tattoos and paintings, called Mehindi, are traditionally used for festive occasions like weddings and special holidays. Although it is more common for women to use this type of henna tattoo with which to decorate their bodies, men can also use the henna tattoo art form. The art is seen as beautifying the body in celebration.

Some of the designs can be quite ornate and time consuming to do. The thickness of the applied henna and the detail of the design, can make the process very involved. Very ornate ones can take hours to create. Patience and a steady hand are needed to try this art form.

The group of teens were each given a chance to draw and design their own tattoo. Books and printouts were provided, in order to give them more ideas to make their own creations with. They were given drawing supplies, cleaning supplies and each student received their own cone of henna to use for their tattoo.

With tables covered in newspaper, the corner of the public library became a temporary henna tattoo studio of sorts. The students paired off in order to help each other make their different henna tattoo creations.

For those too timid or less proficient with their artistic skills, Sadaf and Tuba helped make the creations on arms, hands, legs and other body parts. One brave student decided to put whiskers in his face. Another had a couple beautiful and ornate designs done on her upper arm and hand. They were created by one of the Jawed sisters.

The henna takes up to 12 hours to cure. It has to be kept on the skin in order for the henna dye to leave an imprint on the skin, that will stay for awhile. After the allotted time the dark henna is removed, if it hasn't already peeled off by itself. Then the lighter, final and more delicate henna tattoo design, can be seen.

The teens did have to have a release signed by an adult in order to participate in the activity.

One plus to the henna tattoo, is that it is a temporary medium. The artistic creations only last from one to three weeks. It is a great way to experience having a tattoo without making the long term commitment to one particular design.

This reporter was able to join in the henna tattoo culture and art teaching session. Fun was had by all. It was a wonderful and creative learning experience led by two creative young women.

The library often has special events like this for their teens and children. The teen coordinator for the activities at Oakley Library is Angeline Tastad-Young.