Do you like henna tattoos? Ever wonder about their history and meanings, as well as what goes into making the henna paste and how it is applied? This course will address all these questions. We will begin by providing a theoretical basis of the transnational meanings of henna tattoos, their histories, and the ways they can be used both to articulate South Asian identity in diaspora, as well as used in culturally appropriative ways. Concurrently, we will also be learning the essentials of applying henna tattoos. In each class session, we will discuss the cultural implications of the various styles of henna as well as learning how to apply it through collaboration.

As a result of this course, you will learn learn histories and cultural meanings of henna tattoos, including how henna tattoos culturally represent individuals around the world. We will discuss how henna serves as a unifying force across different cultures, nations, and socioeconomic statuses and as a form of expression in the face of adversity and oppression. Along with that, you will be able to draw various designs and the shading techniques essential to the art of henna. By doing so, you will develop a creative intuition through which you will be able to come up with your own henna designs.