Age Range: 12-18

Henna, more traditionally referred to as Mehendi art, is a temporary tattoo art form consisting of intricate motifs that adorn hands and feet. In this class for teens, we will be taking an unconventional approach to the ancient art form. We will begin by getting familiar with handling the henna cone (which can be quite different from anything you have worked with). We will then move to drawing some common patterns, such as flowers, leaves, vines, and mangoes, but make the patterns on a canvas. Of course, you are welcome to also draw on your hands; this art class will provide all supplies required. You will take home a handmade canvas with a motif of your choice drawn in henna. There will be plenty of sample canvases and henna motifs you can choose from to experiment with. Whether you enjoy painting, drawing, sculpture, or cake decorating, are you ready to try out plant based henna paste and be surprised by the outcome?

Come be part of this exciting journey and enhance your artistic skills through hands-on exploration with the versatile medium of henna!

Note: 

-Financial aid is available upon inquiry

-All proceeds from this class will go to the nonprofits Henna for Humanity and LexArt

About the instructor: Niyathi Srinivasan is a sophomore at Lexington High School (LHS), and the founder of Henna for Humanity. Niyathi started the nonprofit Henna for Humanity with her friends two years ago with the aim to keep the artform of Henna alive, accessible, and affordable to everyone. Niyathi says of starting her nonprofit: "I’m passionate about the arts and wanted to find a way to stay connected with others; something I believe is sorely needed in a pandemic era."

In addition to her passion for Henna, Niyathi is a member of the LHS swimming team, and an Indian classical music student, who plays the veena and is trained in Carnatic vocals.