Mehendi. Henna. Marudhani. Canna. Many languages have a word for the beautiful reddish dye stain derived from the plant Lawsonia inermis. Originating in North Africa, henna is used for decorative body art across Asia and Africa to mark celebratory events such as holidays and weddings. Pigments can come from a variety of other botanical sources. For example, blues can be made using the jagua plant, also often used in decorative art.
On August 22, join Chicago Mehfil for live music, henna artists and delicious food! Learn about the cultural and historical use of jagua and mehendi while seeing the Lawsonia inermis plant growing right in front of your eyes in the Conservatory’s Artist’s Garden Show Pigments!
Experience the magic of this beautiful tradition by getting your own henna designs done by a team of amazing artists! While the garden and live music performances will be free, event attendees will pay for henna designs and food on-site.
About Chicago Mehfil:
Chicago Mehfil is a South Asian-centered, volunteer-run music collective dedicated to creating cross-cultural, community-rooted experiences through music and the arts. For the past four years, the collective has hosted gatherings across Chicago that celebrate creativity, cultural exchange, and meaningful connection.
Committed to keeping the arts accessible, Chicago Mehfil offers free events—with optional suggested donations for select programs—that welcome audiences from all backgrounds. Their programming provides a platform for both emerging and established local artists while fostering collaboration across cultures and artistic disciplines.
From intimate living room mehfils to studios, gardens, and venues throughout the city, each event is thoughtfully curated to cultivate community through shared artistic experiences.
Follow @chicagomehfil on Instagram for a full list of artists, musicians and additional details
This event is included with general admission into the Conservatory & Gardens.