Portland Public Library presents “Innovations on a Tradition: Henna Art and Women’s Empowerment in Zanzibar”

Portland Public Library presents “Innovations on a Tradition: Henna Art and Women’s Empowerment in Zanzibar” on Tuesday, January 5th 

at 6pm in the Rines Auditorium

Portland, Maine - Henna body painting is one reflection of the centuries-old Muslim heritage of Zanzibar in East Africa. A group of Zanzibari women has recently translated traditional henna designs onto canvas and paper, gaining artistic and financial independence. A professor of African aft, an artist who has taught in Zanzibar and two architects, all from Portland, will share historical perspectives on the region’s art and architecture as well as their experiences collaborating to support and design a gallery space for these women.

With Aimee Bessire, Professor at Bates College and an expert on traditional and contemporary African art; Alice Spencer, a painter and printmaker whose work has been exhibited here and abroad; plus Pamela W. Hawkes and T. Scott Teas, founders of Scattergood Design after decades as principals in architectural firms in Boston and Portland respectively.

In partnership with the World Affairs Council and the Camden Conference.