Re: Out of hiding....now a grandma!

Posted by Amy C on August 08, 1999 at 03:37:20:

In Reply to: Out of hiding....now a grandma! posted by Di Van Parijs on August 06, 1999 at 23:16:04:

As a new henna artist, and someone without genetic ties to any traditional hennaing culture, it occurs to me that I might be viewed just this way upon popping up at my first festival along side veterans (if I ever make that leap). That is, as someone looking to make a buck off a fad. Yet I do approach mehndi as a spiritual, giving, meaningful and expressive form of traditional art. Before I show up at my first festival, I will have done many a happy 'customer' for free and spent many an hour happily painting any body part I can reach on myself.

Therefore, let's not assume all these newbies are just trying to make a buck off your buzz. Instead let's imagine that they have been itching for a public forum to practice an art they sincerely enjoy & find beautiful (which is legitimate in its own way, even if they don't know all the history of henna). Perhaps they are grateful for your inspiration, or for the fact that you have created new public interest in something they already liked to do. Surely spreading the joy of henna could not anger the goddess.

Part of the appeal of henna is that it has long been practiced by every day people who may not consider themselves 'fine artists'. It's a folk art in a way. And among those festival booths there are surely some who enjoy it as such and have been inspired by your success and your talent.

(That said, I tend to agree that the true spirit of the ritual is better appreciated one-on-one or in intimate groups. I'm not sure I'm dying to do the festival thing myself.)

Amy, who respectfully submits a positive spin on the popularity of henna.

P.S. Congratulations!

Follow-ups:

• Re: Out of hiding....now a grandma! Di Van Parijs 20:24:02 8/09/99 (1)
  • Congratulations on grandmotherhood!!!(no text) Shanon Lavender 23:58:14 8/09/99 (0)