Livingston residents can try their hand at henna art on Monday, July 27, when the Livingston Public Library hosts "Discover Henna: Tradition, Culture & Design," a free workshop led by Smriti Sangal of Culture Chauraha.
The 30-minute session starts at 7 p.m. in the Program Room at 10 Robert H. Harp Dr. and is part of the library's South Asian Heritage Month programming this July. Sangal will open with a brief history of henna, then guide participants through simple patterns and motifs before they create their own designs on their hands or on paper.
All materials are provided, including natural, chemical-free henna cones safe for skin application.
Archana Chiplunkar, the library's Adult Services and Acquisitions Librarian who organized the event and previously coordinated a Mithila painting exhibit at the library in July 2022, said participants can work "either on your hands or on paper, depending on your comfort."
Henna, also known as mehendi, has been used for centuries across India, Pakistan and neighboring regions to adorn the body during festivals, weddings and celebrations. The workshop is open to Livingston Library cardholders 18 and older. Space is limited, and registration opens Monday, July 13, at 10 a.m. through the library's online calendar.
The Friends of the Livingston Public Library, a nonprofit that supports library programming, is sponsoring the event.
Upcoming community events
- Sunday, July 12: "Seat at the Table" film screening and panel discussion, 1:30–4:30 p.m., Livingston Public Library Program Room. Presented in partnership with the Livingston League of Women Voters for South Asian Heritage Month. Registration required through the League of Women Voters.
- Monday, July 13: Registration opens at 10 a.m. for the July 27 henna workshop. Visit livingston.librarycalendar.com.
- Monday, July 27: "Discover Henna: Tradition, Culture & Design," 7–7:30 p.m., Livingston Public Library Program Room. Free; Livingston Library cardholders 18+. Registration required.
