By Genesis Benavides
Students were invited by the Muslim Student Association to create art that was personal to them by using a piece of their culture to to express themselves through the art of henna.
“The Muslim Student Association does many henna events by sharing the significance of henna.” MSA Secretary Sara Elmachiadi said. “It is a fun way to teach about the culture and a way to diversify UNCP.”
The Sept. 18 event showed the students the art of henna along with the cultural and historical impact of henna in many Middle Eastern countries. Henna originated around 5,000 years ago and it has roots in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. Henna is made by crushing the leaves of the henna plant.
Henna holds a cultural significance as a sense of cultural identity, and they signify blessings in important events such as weddings and festivals. Henna has been used to symbolize good luck, spiritual enlightenment, protection, and wisdom.
The designs of henna can range from simple patterns to intricate designs that have a cultural meaning. The henna design can even be influenced by one’s astrological signs, certain patterns are aligned with zodiac traits, making the body art more personal to the wearer. In the modern world, henna is temporary and is used as a form of body art.
“My goal with the Muslim Student Association is to push the word of the Muslim community here at UNCP for the students,” MSA President Ayoub Abudaya said. “Culture is an important part of a community and to give students a sense of belonging and having reason.”
