Mehndi MadnessTM Blog
Krysteen
Mehndi Madness was so excited to attend 2021 Henna Society conference last November. Founder Krysteen and our youngest Mehndi Madness artist, Pearl, attended and got to participate in classes for beginner and experienced artists. The classes are extensive and focus on a variety of subjects like, design building, appropriately incorporating other cultural styles, mixology, and importantly what is henna cultural appropriation and how the history of henna matters.
This conference is about appreciating henna’s roots in northern Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, with classes and speakers to discuss what it means to be a part of the henna community. We’ll be looking at what some cultures consider appropriation and why they are speaking up now about other people using their traditions as well as opening up a discussion about our henna biases, fears and ways to improve ourselves to be more respectful of other cultures. Mehndi Madness does our best to respect the traditions and cultures associated with henna and spread that awareness to our customers. We are always looking to grow our knowledge of henna traditions and the best way to uphold respect as well as incorporating our own flare. We’re excited for Mehndi Madness to gain new skills and knowledge of the craft and traditions to bring back and incorporate into our business and designs.
Continuing our henna education at the conference also lets us experience some fun classes on technique and learn new modernist design styles, as well as re-inventing old favorites like vines and trees. Krysteen especially liked the mixology class that went over new methods of mixing henna and new oils that are being used. This is important because different ways of mixing henna can bring out different henna qualities for example, if you want a darker stain, or prolonging the life of the henna mixture before it goes bad. Our sweet Pearl got to enhance her technique and explore the ancient roots of henna as well as see what new styles she could pick up.
Make an appointment with Mehndi Madness now to take advantage of our new skills and knowledge in design work and community!
