Working Class Creatives

Subscribe via: iTunes | Google Play | RSS Natalie Santiago is a professional henna artist and Phd. candidate interested in the rhetoric of body art. Links Bodhi Tree Mendi Bodhi Tree Mendi on Facebook Show Notes Henna (or Mendi) is a natural dye made of Henna Leaf mixed up with water or lemon juice, essential oils, and sugar, and applied via cones to create intricate patterns on various parts of the body. Different skin complexions take henna applications to different degrees. Some people don't take them at all. Patterns must be adapted to suite the individual's body contours. Henna art involves a great deal of research and large communities of practitioners. Professional artists mix their own pastes, and this is what separates them from the hobbyists. Pattern books are sold and patterns can be replicated to internalize the nature of the art, but Natalie prefers to design her own, and has numerous sketchbooks full of potential patterns. She will do henna at street fests for up to 10 hours a day. Henna ar