Mehndi Gallery Description

Mehndi Series (pronounced men-de-hin-thee)

This series of paintings is based upon the intricate and timeless Asian art form of mehndi. Reserved for special occasions like weddings and festivals, mehndi is the traditional art of body painting with henna, indigo, and other natural dyes. Typically the natural dyes and pigments are painted upon the hands and feet where it will stain the skin better.

Usually when I set out to create a painting, I will sketch and plan ahead. In this exotic series, the composition starts as I build up the luminous layers of carmel glazing upon the canvas or watercolor paper. The original intricate designs and patterns I create are free flowing and unfold before me as I paint. I enjoy playing with the positive and negative spaces this free flowing painting method creates.

I use a rich earthy color palette that is limited to: raw umber, yellow ochre, Indian saffron red, burnt orange (burnt sienna), espresso coffee brown (burnt umber), turmeric yellow, pekoe tea black (jet black), and some ivory white. The abstract patterns paired with the rich earthy colors gives these works a modern yet traditional ethnic feel.

I am intrigued with the accessibility of this art form among all people and across cultures. Often the bride and groom’s initials are hidden within the elaborate mehndi designs for the groom to find on their honeymoon night. It has been said that the Indian wedding mehndi stain's long-lasting nature symbolizes the enduring love between husband and wife. To engage the viewer in a little visual foreplay, I have hidden my signature of initials within each painting.