Course Title:

Henna Arts for Creative Expression

Course Duration:

40 hours

Target Audience:

Beginners and hobbyists with an interest in cultural arts, design, and self-expression

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Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the history and cultural significance of henna across various regions

• Identify and mix basic natural henna paste safely

• Create traditional and contemporary henna patterns

• Practice safe and ethical application techniques

• Develop their own style and portfolio for personal enrichment

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Weekly Breakdown

Week 1: Introduction to Henna Arts 

• Course overview and expectations

• Brief history and global traditions of henna (India, Middle East, Africa)

• Cultural and ritualistic importance

• Henna vs. black henna: health and legal considerations

• Ethics of cultural appreciation vs. appropriation

 

Week 2: Materials and Safety 

• Understanding henna plant properties

• Mixing henna: ingredients, recipes, storage

• Cone preparation and storage techniques

• Skin preparation and aftercare

• Patch testing and hygiene practices

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Week 3: Basic Motifs & Elements 

• Dots, lines, paisleys, leaves, vines

• Indian, Arabic, and North African styles: comparison and visual exploration

• Practice exercises on paper

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Week 4: Simple Design Practice

• Practice designs on paper and plastic sheets

• Hand control and cone pressure techniques

• Pattern repetition and symmetry

• Introduction to negative space

Week 5: Cultural Motifs and Meanings 

• Symbolism in henna designs

• Bridal symbolism, festival patterns, and regional variations

• Group activity: design cultural patterns with explanations

• Guest speaker or video: Henna as cultural storytelling

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Week 6: Freehand Practice on Skin 

• Transition from paper to live skin (hands/arms)

• Working with different skin tones and types

• Tips for steady handwork and pressure control

• Student pairs practice basic designs

Week 7: Composition and Flow 

• Designing for the body: shape and placement

• Balance and flow in larger patterns

• Creating full-hand and wristband compositions

• Practicing personal design layout

Week 8: Contemporary Henna and Fusion Styles 

• Modern henna: western and global fusions

• Geometric, mandala, and minimalist styles

• Henna-inspired art on paper, candles, and objects

• DIY art project using henna cones on canvas or non-skin materials

Week 9: Creative Design Project 

• Drafting final project (full hand, object, or mixed-media design)

• Peer critiques and feedback session

• Individual mentoring/check-in

• Begin application of final design

Week 10: Showcase and Reflection 

• Completion of final design

• Informal exhibit and group feedback

• Portfolio development (photos, journaling, sketches)

• Cultural reflection and closing ceremony

Course Materials Provided:

• Practice sheets and templates

• Natural henna cones

• Skin-safe oils and accessories

• Handouts on symbolism, safety, and styles

• Access to guest speakers or video material

Assessment & Participation:

• Participation in practice sessions and discussions

• Weekly exercises and reflection journal

• Final project and informal presentation

• No formal grading (non-vocational)