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Event Type: Libraries

Join us for an inspiring and hands-on Henna Mehndi Workshop, where tradition meets creativity. Often referred to as Mehandi, this ancient art form involves adorning the hands, feet, or body with intricate designs made from a natural paste derived from the dried leaves of the henna plant.

Celebrated across South Asia—and sharing deep cultural roots with traditions in North Africa, East Africa, and the Middle East—henna is far more than just body art. It is a symbol of beauty, ritual, and celebration.

This workshop begins with a warm introduction to the rich history, cultural significance, and natural composition of henna. You’ll discover how different communities have embraced this art form in festivals, ceremonies, and everyday life.

What to Expect:

  • Discover the cultural history of henna
  • Learn about safe and natural henna practices
  • Take part in short art therapy activities
  • Browse through a curated selection of design books for inspiration
  • Practise drawing patterns and create your own henna hand designs
  • Engage in an open Q&A with a professional henna artist
  • Optional: enjoy a quick and simple henna application using traditional henna and glitter cones

All henna paste ingredients will be clearly displayed. If you choose to receive a design, please review our Allergy Advice poster on-site beforehand.

This workshop is open to ages 13 and above — perfect for anyone interested in art, culture, and self-expression.

Discover the story behind every swirl and dot—immerse yourself in the beauty of henna.

About the Workshop Facilitator
Divya is a local resident and offers a professional Henna Tattoo Service. She is Ash Kumar Certified.

All materials provided

Spaces limited, please book in advance

Stay behind or join us after Rhyme Time for a craft specially for our under 5s! Cut, stick and create an out of this world outer space scene!

Stay behind or join us after Rhyme Time for a craft specially for our under 5s! Cut, stick and create a sunny seaside scene!

Stay behind or join us after Rhyme Time for a craft specially for our under 5s! Cut, stick and create a swashbuckling pirate island scene!

Stay behind or join us after Rhyme Time for a craft specially for our under 5s! Cut, stick and create a colourful under the sea scene!

Stay behind or join us after Rhyme Time for a craft specially for our under 5s! Cut, stick and create a colourful fruit salad bowl, perfect for summer!

Creative AI is changing our visual culture. Experience what it takes to easily dominate the AI and Digital art scene by exploring some basics using free design software resources and your imagination! Get an early jump on knowledge and the best options for exploring AI generative art and existing digital art workflow processes. Prepare to be amazed by how it relies on completely different skill sets than traditional art. Participants will collaborate on exploring design ideas of their choice based on any appropriate topic of interest.

Capturing the joy of London’s Congolese community in the 1980s and 90s
Djofray Makumbu captures the essence of the era in a series of portraits of family and friends taken from old photo albums. His paintings convey the energy and joy of a community coming together through a shared language and culture.

This exhibition is part of Black History Month

In this high-energy workshop, you’ll build and program a robot car using distance sensors, motor controls, and if/else logic. The challenge is always adapted to the group — from fun crash battles for younger kids to advanced matches using touch sensors and strategic design. Can your robot outlast the competition?

For more information about all our activities visit our Lab Central page or our Lab FX page. If the event is full, please join the waiting list so we can gauge interest in running more sessions.

Booking Information
Choose your location and session time below to book via Bookwhen:

Fullwell Cross Library (Lab FX) – Wednesday 28 May: morning session or afternoon session.

Redbridge Central Library (Lab Central) – Thursday 29 May: morning session or afternoon session.

Join author Monique Duncan for an inspiring storytelling and coloring activity based on her new book Freedom Braids.

Monique Duncan graduated with an MFA from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. She is also a primary school teacher in the US. Monique is passionate about educating and affirming children through her books.

Booking Essential – Tickets are free, or you can pre-order a signed copy of the book!

This session is part of Black History Month

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