Arts have captivated me since my early childhood. From my first macaroni and glue project to my most recent attempts at anatomical studies, art has grown from a mild interest to an integral part of what defines me. The constant challenge of updating and improving technique and styles, as well as continuously finding new inspiration, has always brought me deep satisfaction.
When I was a young girl, I used to doodle on every empty spot or whatever paper I could get my hands on. While playing volleyball is my cup of tea, drawing and painting are, and will always be my passion. When I was an elementary school student, I cherished every moment of art class, even if I found the demands of my art teachers too stifling. Art teachers always dictated both the subject and medium of every art project instead of giving free reign to our artistic talents. Fortunately, my love of art compelled me to pursue my talent outside the classroom, i.e. in the private space in my room that I fondly called my “studio”.
When I’m depressed, melancholy expressions overwhelm my work of arts. From my childhood days, I was very fond of sketching and painting than anything else. It was so much fun to participate in arts and crafts competitions at school during those times.
My parents and friends used to appreciate me for my work. So I always felt that I have to make use of it. Mehendi art has been, and continues to be, the main outlet for my feelings. Mehendi is the art of painting the body in ornate designs with henna. Associated with transformation and transcendence, it is a beautiful and mysterious art form that has been used for centuries to heal, to adorn, and to bless. A paste is made from the crushed leaves of the henna plant mixed with other natural ingredients, such as eucalyptus oil, lemon juice, and black tea. The paste is applied to the skin and when removed several hours later, it leaves beautiful markings that last from 1 to 3 weeks. Women put beautiful designs on their hands and feet for special occasions.
Henna accompanies engagements, weddings, births, religious events, festivals and everyday life. Henna is commonly worn for cosmetic purposes. Henna is also said to have medicinal uses and be used as a sunscreen as well as a hair dye. Before weddings , women will often host a party where the bride’s hands and feet are decorated with intricate henna designs. The Hindu style of henna is characterized by paisley and peacock prints.
Many of the designs featured the “evil eye,” a superstition among Hindus. Henna is also being used to tell a different sort of God’s stories. Christians in South Asia and Africa developed designs depicting Bible stories. The designs incorporate symbols representing key components; sin and forgiveness. Believers tell the stories as they apply the henna. Now, hundreds of women are writing words not just on their hearts, but on their hands as well.
“Art is my Life , A passion within me”--
Prepared by,
Vinothini Paramasivam
Course Counselor
Vision College
