Entrance into Motherhood
Last November, my studio welcomed a radiant first-time mama, who had long admired the beauty of pregnancy art. She had often wished for such a unique way to celebrate her own journey, especially since finding an artist who honored this tradition nearby felt like a perfect, welcome discovery. Despite being so close to her due date, they hadn't yet found a special way to mark this extraordinary time. For her, being adorned in henna became the sweetest, most meaningful way to honor her entrance into motherhood.
#FirstTimeMama #BellyArt #HennaBlessing #MaternityArt #ExpectingMom #MamaToBe #DocumentingPregnancy #BoulderHenna #ColoradoHenna #hennabelly #allnaturalhenna #MarktheMoments
Sarah’s vision for her art arrived in a flurry of screenshots – pieces of my past work she adored, as well as potential elements - trees, mountains, nature, butterflies, birds, and insects. I was sparked by the request for insects and pulled up a sketch I’d done years ago with a little grasshopper with lots of nature elements. She also saw my sketch for the lotus and wanted to incorporate that.
#HennaDesign #CustomHenna #NatureInspired #HennaArt #CreativeProcess #BotanicalHenna #LotusHenna #InsectArt #PregnancyArt #PregnancyHenna #BodyArt #ArtisticJourney #HandDrawn #UniqueArt #PregnantAndAdorned #MamaToBe #prenatalhenna #boulderart #boulderhenna
What can I say? My heart absolutely sings celebrating women's pregnancies! There's an unparalleled joy in creating something so beautiful for such a significant moment. It’s not just about the henna; it’s about honoring the strength, the grace, and the incredible journey each woman embarks upon, leaving them with a tangible reminder of their miraculous power.
Lotus Flower Love
Ever wonder why the lotus flower is one of the most common requests I get for henna adornment of pregnant mamas? It’s far more than just a pretty design – its deep symbolism resonates with the sacred journey of bringing new life into the world. It’s truly a blessing to capture this on skin.
Here's why this ancient bloom holds such gratitude in a mother's heart:
Purity & New Beginnings: Growing pristine from the mud, the lotus beautifully mirrors the pure soul emerging, and the spiritual awakening as a woman blooms into radiant motherhood. A blessed beginning, indeed.
Sacred Creation: Across cultures, the lotus represents creation and rebirth, a beautiful echo of the cosmic womb and the miracle unfolding within.
Graceful Strength: Its delicate petals belie an incredible resilience, pushing through to light. This reflects the immense inner strength, endurance, and boundless love a mama discovers on her transformative path.
Unfolding Potential: Each stage of the lotus's growth speaks of unfolding possibility. It's a gorgeous blessing for both the baby's development and the mother's own beautiful transformation.
The lotus, for these mamas, is a powerful, grateful testament to beauty, resilience, and the miracle of new beginnings – a perfect, cherished symbol for the heart of motherhood.
These are some of the lotus flower henna designs I’ve done over the years.
This last image was taken by Fiona Rose, and amazing photographer I work with occasionally.
#LotusSymbolism #PregnantMama #MotherhoodJourney #HennaArt #MaternityHenna #NewBeginnings #SacredMotherhood #PregnancyBlessings #CosmicWomb #womb #BirthJourney #HennaLotus #coloradohenna
Octopus floating by
Last November, I had the pleasure of working with a lovely expectant mother who inspired me to create one of my standout pieces.
Eda had mentioned her love of octopus designs ahead of time, and upon arrival, she also expressed interest in incorporating a tree into the design. Fortunately, I had already sketched out an octopus piece that I thought would work beautifully, and I saw an opportunity to integrate the tree element into her hand design.
As she sat in my henna throne, Eda shared that she hails from Turkey, where henna is a cherished tradition for celebrating new beginnings like births, weddings, and other milestones. She was thrilled to find a henna artist in America, and her enthusiasm added an extra layer of joy to the experience.
#henna #hennaart #octopusdesign #pregnancyhenna #culturaltraditions #temporaryart #hennastudio #octopus #expectingmother #bellyhenna #coloradohenna #pregnancyart
I'm captivated by the vibrant colors that came together in this stunning piece – the rich tones of this radiant mama's skin, the warm brown henna stain, and the earthy palette of her outfit, complete with shades of maroon and green, all perfectly curated from my wardrobe.
To me, the pregnant belly is the ultimate canvas, and it's an honor to adorn these new mothers with art that's full of love and blessings. Every detail felt like it fell into place, and I'm still in awe of the magic we created together.
#pregnancyhenna #maternityart #artisticblessings #mamacelebration #journeytomotherhood #riteofpassage #honoringmothers #motherhood #naturalhenna #hennastain
#Bellyhenna - the canvas that kicks back!
Earlier this month, while I was adorning this beautiful mama, I had the wonderful blessing of feeling her unborn baby move under my hand.
In those moments, the world slows. It's an undeniable connection to the miracle I'm celebrating, a gentle, vibrant whisper from the new life stirring within. It's a tangible confirmation of the immense power of creation, and it reminds me that the art I create is part of a much larger, ancient ritual of blessing and welcome.
This trust, this shared intimacy with both mama and baby, makes my work feel sacred and cherished.
#HennaMoments #PregnantMagic #BabyKicks #MaternityArt #HennaArtistLife #WombConnection #MiracleOfLife #Blessing #Celebratelife #Lotus
For over two decades, the sacred call to honor women's pregnancies with art and ritual has been the heartbeat of my work. It's a devotion that hasn't wavered, inspiring volumes of art and now, my next book celebrating the miraculous journey of pregnancy. Every week, my Boulder studio welcomes incredible mamas-to-be, models whose radiant energy keeps this artistic flow alive.
Take Tashia, for instance. Her vision of lotus, mandala, and Hawaiian themes sparked a fresh exploration for me. I loved diving into new ways to weave these ideas together. Once the henna paste was dry, we moved from the studio's warmth into the gentle embrace of my backyard for a photoshoot, capturing her glow.
#PregnancyHenna #PregnantMama #BoulderArtist #WomensEmpowerment #NewBeginnings #SacredPregnancy #LotusHenna #HawaiianVibes #CreativeJourney #MotherhoodArt #hennabelly #boulderhenna
There are days when my work leaves me feeling utterly blessed, and photoshoots like Tashia's are certainly among them. Tashia brought her sweet 18-month-old daughter, a tiny whirlwind of pure joy who graced me with at least six spontaneous, soul-filling hugs! What an absolute angel, her affection a balm to the spirit.
Naturally, she also embraced her role as a wonderfully uncooperative toddler, a true testament to her age. Yet, within that playful chaos, I captured moments of exquisite tenderness between mother and child, and a precious image with both parents. These are the unexpected gifts, the profound, unscripted beauty that makes every session so incredibly special.
#FamilyMoments #BlessedLife #PregnancyJourney #MotherhoodJoy #ParentingLove #LittleAngel #Heartwarming #MotherDaughter #hennastain #allnaturalhenna #hennatattoo
Mother and Son
Last November, I had the honor of adorning Nina, a radiant new mama, with a henna design that told a powerful story. Inspired by Nordic mythology and the symbolism of the ancient Vikings (her ancestors), Nina's vision was a beautiful tapestry of nature and meaning. Her arm was already etched with a permanent tattoo of a tree, its roots a testament to the grounding force it had been in her life since youth. It was clear that this symbol held profound significance, and she wanted to weave its magic into her pregnancy design. I brought her vision to life, incorporating the Viking Symbol of Mother and Son into the trunk, and sneaking in a whisper of the moon – a celestial nod to the new life she carried.
NordicMythology #VikingSymbolism #HennaArt #PregnancyHenna #MotherhoodMagic #TreeOfLife #SacredSymbols #MaternalLove #HennaStorytelling #bellyhenna #coloradohenna #pregnancyart
As Nina's henna session came to a close, we stepped into my backyard, where autumn's palette was on full display. Crimson leaves swirled around her feet as she settled beneath the maple's canopy – a fitting tribute to the tree that had been her symbol of strength. I had a vision to ground her in this moment, surrounded by nature's fiery splendor, and the tree she'd been adorned with seemed to be the perfect partner. The resulting photos are a love letter to life, color, and the radiant glow of new beginnings.
#AutumnBliss #PregnancyGlow #HennaAndNature #HennaTreeOfLife #MapleMagic #FallVibes #hennabelly #adornment #mothertobe #thirdtrimester #motherson
Nina returned at the peak of her henna's color, beaming with pride and creativity. She unveiled a showstopping, handcrafted mermaid top – a masterpiece of metal and chainmail that left me in awe.
Moments like these are magic: reuniting with my art, and getting a second chance to weave blessings into a mama's journey, as she prepares to welcome new life.
Check out Nina’s amazing collection at @xforeverchainedx
#MermaidVibes #HandmadeWithLove #ChainmailArt #PregnancyGlow #ExpectantMama #ArtisticMom #MetalAndMagic #firsttimemama #naturalhenna #hennastain #bellyhenna #maternitymehndi #soontobeborn
Menarche Celebration
Celebrating that first rite of passage into womanhood is such an honor!
Last fall, I got a text from Stacey that her daughter Lina was excited to commemorate her transition into this next phase of a woman’s life with henna. I first met Stacey many years ago when I adorned her for her pregnancy with Lina, and over the years as she’s returned for more henna - postpartum henna, breastfeeding henna, mother-daughter henna sessions… It's been a beautiful journey to witness.
Lina had lots of ideas for her henna, starting with roses around her neck and half a butterfly on her hand - her mom got the other half on her hand. Such a beautiful way to honor her mom - life changes for the mother too when her daughter starts her cycles.
What an incredible milestone! Being part of this moment in their lives was pure joy. The love and warmth they shared filled the studio, a true celebration of their bond and the beauty of womanhood unfolding.
#HennaCeremony #RiteOfPassage #WomanhoodCelebrated #MotherDaughterLove #HennaArt #FirstPeriod #MenarcheCelebration #EmpoweredWomen #Boulderhenna #ColoradoHenna #goddesshenna #allnaturalhenna #adorn #hennatattoo #bodyart #bouldercolorado
Golden Ratio Ferns
Althea reached out last October, expecting her second daughter and seeking a way to connect even deeper with feminine energy. She saw henna adornment as a sacred experience and was open to design ideas, and shared a few concepts that resonated with her: moon, mandalas, ferns, moths, and the golden ratio. I'm honored to have woven these threads into this unique henna design for her!
Note the red thread on the mother’s wrist, it was from her blessing ceremony.
#hennaart #hennadesign #FeminineEnergy #MaternityArt #NatureInspired #MoonMagic #GoldenRatio #mushrooms #pregnancyhenna #hennabelly #boulderhenna #hennapaste #blessthemama #sacred #ferns
Althea's henna session was followed by a photo shoot with Jessie – I love working with other photographers, they bring a new angle that really makes the art shine.
Jessie’s photos @jessiegreenbergphotography
#photography #boulderphotography #hennaphotoshoot #maternityphotoshoot #wonderlandlakephotoshoot #portraitphotography
Althea returned after 3 days when her henna was peaking in color. She brought along her sweet little daughter, who was happy to dress up with us! It was cold, but we all stepped outside and got some beautiful images with the changing colors of fall.
I love how this little girl is holding onto her mama’s pregnant belly, so very sweet.
#naturalhennastain #pregnancyart #celebratewithhenna #hennatattoo #hennastain #boulderhenna #bellyblessing #hennastain #mamacelebration #coloradohenna #pregnancyart #motherdaughter #boulderart #bouldercolorado #mamahenna #EarthMama #ArtMama #MarkTheMoments
October Apples
Eyvonne's October bump session was a creative dream come true! She brought her vision to life with prompts like mandala, flower, and tree of life – and I was fascinated with the screenshots she sent over.
As I sketched, something magical happened: the tree of life transformed into a lush apple tree, paying homage to Boulder's autumnal vibes. A radiant sun burst forth as the mandala, while a cozy family of bunnies snuggled up beneath the roots. And a gentle moon joined the party, too. When I showed Eyvonne the sketch, she beamed – and we spent a blissful 1.5 hours bringing it to life.
#PregnancyArt #BumpPainting #MaternityArt #BodyPainting #NatureInspiredArt #TreeOfLife #MandalaArt #AutumnVibes #BoulderArt #ExpectingMama #bunnies #appletree #coloradomamas #adornment #boulderhenna
After the henna dried, we stepped into the serene oasis of my backyard, where the air was alive with the gentle rustle of changing leaves. And Eyvonne? She radiated the quiet strength of motherhood unfolding.
#PregnancyGlow #MamaVibes #NatureMama #ExpectingMom #FallVibes #MaternityMagic #bouldercolorado #babybumplove #pregnantbelly #freestyle #nostencil #henna #inspirepregnancy #mothertobe #modernhenna
Scorpio constellation
Last October, I adorned a mama with a one-of-a-kind request for her design: a scorpion plummeting from the Scorpio constellation, merging astrology with Greek myth. The goal was to capture the drama of the constellation coming alive, with the scorpion's descent symbolizing a spiritual entity entering the earthly realm.
The scorpion's landing spot? The Colorado landscape, representing the child's roots and journey, infusing celestial power into their life.
To enhance the composition, the design includes flowing water or waves, tapping into Scorpio's water sign energy and representing emotional depth and transformation. Pluto, the ruling planet of Scorpio, is also incorporated to reinforce the astrological significance.
It was an artistic challenge that I enjoyed sketching. I love how it came out!
#AstrologicalArt #ScorpioArt #MythologicalArt #SpiritualArt #CelestialArt #bellyhenna #coloradohenna #pregnancyart #adornment #uniquehennadesign
Chynna's session was so lovely! She brought her partner and little one, who enjoyed playing in the studio while she was adorned. Afterward, we headed out to the garden and got some beautiful shots. I always love seeing how tiny humans connect with their mama's pregnant belly – just the sweetest thing!
#MaternityPhotography #PregnancyPhotoshoot #FamilyPhotography #MomLife #pregnancyhenna #maternityhenna #bellybump #prenatal #mamacelebration #honoringmothers #maternityart #bellyart #freehand
Cronewort & Red Earth
I'm thrilled to share my latest art piece! I created this for Red Earth - the women’s herbal gathering happening this summer up in Carbondale. The prompts for this art were Artemisia vulgaris, aka mugwort or cronewort, the plant ally for 2026. This gentle guide helps us open the portal to expanded awareness, accessing wisdom and teachings.
Astrid, founder of Red Earth, wrote: “Cronewort is the wise old crone, with long silvery hair. She guides us, teaches us and leads us gently to access other realms in the waking and in the dreamtime. She assists in opening the portals of consciousness. I love to hang cronewort over my bed, burn as a smudge, use as an ointment on my third eye, and also to smoke.”
Red Earth is deeply nourishing on so many levels. The food was so healthy, local and fresh - a mouth watering gourmet meal each time. There is a sense of freedom that is possible in a woman only space, the ability to express my feminine side fully, joyously. It's so very different from being in public spaces. Sitting in the Red Tent, which looked and felt like a red womb, was an incredibly powerful place to do ceremony. We sang about the ancient mother, about listening to our heart, about weaving the community together. My heart expanded, melted, and I left the Red Tent floating, radiant with feminine power. I loved drinking all the delicious herbal teas all weekend and learning so many new things - about herbs and healing, about my womb and being a woman, about my own ability to claim my power. I am excited for this year's gathering: July 31st thru August 2nd in Carbondale, at 13 Moons Ranch.
https://www.mountainwestwomensherbal.com/
#cronewort #mugwort #plantwomen #wisewomen #womensherbalgathering #planthealers #herbalism #coloradoherbalist #redtent #wombroom #sacredgateway #marketplace #kidspace #comingofage #ritesofpassage #ceremony #maiden #mother #crone #henna #wellness #redearthherbalgathering #mountainwest #mountainwestwomensherbal
Rainbow baby and butterflies
Last September, I met a remarkable mama who wanted to celebrate her rainbow baby. Stephanie's journey to motherhood has been a testament to her strength and resilience, and I was deeply moved to collaborate with her on a design that would honor her story. With four miscarriages behind her, Stephanie sought a meaningful way to acknowledge her losses and celebrate the impending arrival of her rainbow baby, just one month away from birth.
Together, we crafted a poignant design: delicate butterflies, symbolizing the gentle souls she had lost, would dance alongside three exquisite flowers, representing her three living children, while a large mandala flower, with a rainbow at its center, would cradle the promise of her soon-to-be-born baby.
Sketching this design was a labor of love, as I felt honored to play a small part in preserving Stephanie's journey and the memories of the little ones who have touched her heart. The result is a beautiful, intricate tapestry that weaves together the complexities of motherhood, loss, and hope – a true celebration of the strength and love that defines her family.
#rainbowbaby #butterflies #rainbow #coloradohenna #boulderhenna #henna #celebratelife #boulderart #pregnancyart #henna #blessings #pregnancyhenna #bellyhenna #hennabelly #prenatalhenna
After I adorned this beautiful mama, I was delighted to extend the experience to her two youngest daughters, creating a tender moment of bonding and beauty between them. Capturing the scene in my backyard, surrounded by nature's splendor, was a true joy – the love and connection between this mother and her children is simply palpable.
Moments like these remind me of the profound impact of simple, intentional acts – the way a mother's love radiates outward, embracing her children, and the indelible mark it leaves on their hearts.
#daughters #maternallove #motherdaughter #adornment #uniquehennadesign #allnaturalhenna #pregnantbelly #uniquehenna #maternityhenna #bellybump #bellyblessing #hennabellyblessing #rainbowbaby
The henna has truly reached its peak, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the outcome - the rich, dark tones are absolutely stunning! And, as always, the mama herself is beaming with radiance, her glow only heightened by the love and anticipation that fills her heart as she nears the arrival of her little one.
It was a delight to have her return and share in the joy of this special moment, and I was more than happy to offer my warmest blessings as she prepares to welcome her new baby. May this time be filled with peace, joy, and an abundance of love, and may her journey be filled with wonder and magic as she meets her little miracle.
#bellyhenna #customdesign #insprepregnancy #expectingmom #babybump #hennaflow #modernhenna #boulderart #boulderhennaartist #healingdoodles #hennaflowers #naturalhennastain #celebratewithhenna
Flowerchild
Last September, I met a mama who shared her cherished dream of adorning her pregnant form with the exquisite art of henna, inspired by the countless births she's attended as a doula, where the sight of henna-graced bellies profoundly touched her heart. It’s a beautiful way to honor both the mama and her baby.
When I asked Tristin about her design preferences, she shared a heartfelt connection to sunflowers, which have become a meaningful part of her birth support practice, as she brings them to all her births.
Sunflowers embody the essence of sunshine – warmth, happiness, and new beginnings – making them a tribute to the transformative journey of motherhood. I'm honored to collaborate with women like Tristin, bringing their unique visions to life and celebrating the beauty of this sacred rite of passage.
#hennabellly #prenatalhenna #adorn #baby #hennaart #art #hennatattoo #bodyart #floralhenna #hennaflowers #naturalhenna #sunflowerhenna #pregnancyhenna #flowerchild #boulderhenna
After our henna session in the studio and photos in my backyard, Tristin set off with Jessie, one of the photographers I’ve been collaborating with.
Together, they embarked on a creative journey to capture the essence of her sunflower-inspired henna art in the serene beauty of the tranquil Boulder creek.
I'm happy to have had the opportunity to work with Jessie, whose unique lens and artistic vision brought a fresh perspective to my work.
Jessie’s photos @jessiegreenbergphotography
www.JessieGreenbergPhotography.com
#bellyhenna #coloradohenna #pregnancyart #pregnancyphotoshoot #professionalphotography #bouldercolorado #hennaadventures #henna #pregnancyphotography #adornment
It was a delight to have Tristin return to the studio three days post-henna application, allowing me to witness the vibrant culmination of my art as it reached its peak color. The depth and richness of the design on her hand is gorgeous - a testament to the beauty of henna and the unique connection it fosters with the wearer.
#naturalhennastain #pregnancyart #hennabelly #celebratewithhenna #hennatattoo #hennastain #henna #blessings #pregnancyhenna #bellyhenna #hennabelly #prenatalhenna #coloradohenna #bellyblessing #pregnancyjourney
The canvas that kicks back
Last September, I adorned a mama whose baby kept kicking me! As an artist, I was captivated by the freedom of movement the baby had, which necessitated occasional pauses in the design process, allowing the canvas to shift and adjust. Rather than posing a challenge, the baby's energetic movements added to the joy of creating.
Her requests for the design included the moon phases, lotus and mandala.
#4thpregnancy #lotusflowers #moonphases #pregnantlife #pregnantbelly #uniquehenna #pregnancyhenna #maternityhenna #bellybump #prenatal #bellyblessing #pregnancyart
Here is Dacia in my henna throne right after adornment.
She has been a doula for some time now and told me, oh you painted Monet! Monet is another incredible birth photographer who I had the pleasure of adorning years ago. As it happened, she gave birth right after I painted her and the birth was photographed. To see Monet’s photos, scroll through my page on Pregnancy.
#doula #coloradohenna #boulderhenna #henna #celebratelife #mamacelebration #womensart #boulderart #hennabelly #hennabump #MarkTheMoments
After I finished my session with Dacia, we stepped out into my garden for a quick photo. Shortly afterwards, Jessie arrived to take her on a photo adventure. I really love collaborating with photographers, they see things I don’t see, and I love the fresh perspective they bring.
Jessie’s photos @jessiegreenbergphotography
#photography #boulderphotography #hennaphotoshoot #maternityphotoshoot #wonderlandlakephotoshoot #portraitphotography
Dacia returned as her henna was blooming, its rich hues deepening, and we reveled in the magic of capturing her essence amidst the sanctuary of my garden, weaving a tapestry of light, color, and earthy wonder.
#naturalhennastain #pregnancyart #hennabelly #celebratewithhenna #hennatattoo #hennastain #boulderhenna #bellyblessing #hennabellyblessing #hennastain #mamacelebration
22 years as a Henna Artist
I first discovered henna as my art medium back in the fall of 2003. For a long time, I was constantly practicing on myself and others. As soon as a design wore off (which typically happened after a couple of weeks), I would eagerly create a new one. Now, after 22 years, I still have a deep love for this art form, but I tend to reserve it for special occasions, like my birthday!
Near my birthday in August, I spent a wonderful hour and a half in my studio, with piano music playing softly in the background, focused on painting a detailed design on my hand and palm. I decided to paint a variety of flowers, as I feel it symbolizes how much I am blooming and growing in life right now. This wonderful season of flourishing is largely thanks to being in love and receiving so much love and affection from my sweetheart, James.
Afterward, I even took my tripod outside and set up a little photoshoot in my backyard, capturing some self-portraits. I'm grateful I got to spend some time doing something I love so much, connecting with a creative outlet that has been a part of my life for so long. It was a beautiful way to mark the occasion and reflect on how fortunate I feel.
#goddesshenna #boulderart #hennalove #bouldercolorado #hennapro #bodyart #boulderhenna #coloradohenna #hennaartist #localartist #coloradoartist #meetthemaker #creativewomen #artsymama
Grandfather Eagle
Last August, I had a wonderful experience with Mallory, who was referred to me by her doula, Lindsey Bartell.
I appreciate how many women discover my work through the recommendations of their doulas, and Lindsey has been an incredible advocate, sending several mamas my way. I'm so grateful for her continued support and referrals!
I encourage you to check out Lindsey's work if you're interested, she offers both doula support and birth photography.
Mallory is pregnant with her 2nd child, and the past year has felt like a healing journey for her. She hoped that the henna session could prepare her for bringing this next life into this world with a peaceful mindset.
It reinforced what many women have told me previously: that their henna session often feels like a precious moment out of time – a chance to pause, reflect, and deeply connect with the profound beauty of bringing new life into the world. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of this art form.
#peacefulmindset #doula #womensupportingwomen #healingjourney #hennasession #bellyhenna #coloradohenna #pregnancyart #hennablessing #bellyblessing
Initially this mama didn’t have any ideas about the design. As she looked through my Pregnancy Design page, she was inspired by the concept of a growing family tree. What made it special was her personal connection to the idea: she mentioned that she and her husband had a tree planting ceremony at their wedding, where they combined soil from both of their childhood homes.
She was also drawn to having the mountains represented, and showed me some of the mountainous nature scenes I’ve created. Their wedding was in the mountains, and that is where she feels at home.
Additionally, a really touching symbol that came to her was from a special sign a friend created for a baby sprinkle for her little one, which read, “Our little ray of sunshine is almost here.”
As I sat with my pencil and sketch book, brainstorming ideas for nature scenes, I felt the tug of an animal wanting to be included. First came the eagle, as a kind of silhouette against the mountain. Recently we’ve had some bear activity near our home in Boulder, and I found a bear wanting to be in the sketch. Even a tree found its way in, and I really challenged myself to draw it in a way I've never done before – which was tricky, considering I've drawn hundreds of henna trees!
When she arrived, I showed her the sketch I'd prepared, explaining that the animals in it had come to me intuitively, but that the design was entirely flexible and focused on what resonated with her, especially since it was for her belly.
To my delight, she shared that both the bear and the eagle were meaningful to her. Her young daughter has recently developed a love for bears, and the eagle, surprisingly, turned out to be symbolic of her grandfather. Hearing her stories about her ancestors and how these elements unexpectedly aligned was truly magical. It's moments like these when everything just comes together that make my work so rewarding.
#sacredsymbols #eagle #bear #growingfamily #tree #magic #allnaturalhenna #celebratelife #pregnantlife #pregnantbelly #uniquehenna #pregnancyhenna #maternityhenna #bellybump #prenatal
Mallory returned when her henna was peaking in color, and we had a wonderful time photographing her in my backyard garden.
There's one shot in particular that I absolutely adore. The blue fluff seems to be flying out from her belly, and it truly felt like the wings of an eagle sending out a blessing. I'm so happy for Mallory and her growing family.
#naturalhennastain #pregnancyart #hennabelly #celebratewithhenna #hennatattoo #hennastain #boulderhenna
Pregnancy Blessing with her sisters
Last summer, Val contacted me for a henna design to commemorate her firstborn. When I asked her about symbols she might want to include, she had a clear vision. She shared that sunflowers are her favorite flower and hold special significance, representing her relationship with her husband. As a Colorado native, she also wanted to incorporate mountains into the design.
What I found particularly fascinating was her deep connection with the moon through her spirituality, which led to a much longer and very engaging conversation about her beliefs. We discovered we have a lot in common!
#sunflowers #ColoradoNative #coloradomamas #moon #moonphases #mountains #bellyhenna #coloradohenna #pregnancyart #adornment #uniquehennadesign #mothertobe
Val had the wonderful idea of inviting some of her close friends to be present, and I enjoyed getting to know them all as I adorned them.
During our conversation, I asked one of her friends about how she came to live in Colorado. It was a delightful surprise when Val realized she didn't know this particular origin story either – we all ended up learning something new!
It was heartwarming to witness the loving relationships between these women, supporting each other through such special rites of passage.
#motherblessing #mothertobe #hennasession #bellyhenna #coloradohenna #pregnancyart #womensupportingwomen #sisterhood #sisterlove #sacred #riteofpassage #womenscircle #sacredcircle
Val came back to my garden for another photo session. Her henna was at its peak color, so it was the perfect time to capture it.
It was marvelous to reconnect with her and see the intricate art fully developed. We had a wonderful time, and I especially loved hearing how much she enjoyed our previous session and the experience we shared.
#hennabelly #prenatalhenna #adorn #hennaart #hennatattoo #bodyart #hennaflowers #naturalhenna #naturalhennastain #pregnancyart #celebratewithhenna #hennatattoo #hennastain
Val’s testimonial:
“I’m deeply grateful for the incredible experience I shared with my sisters and new friend SarahKate Butterworth. We had the privilege of offering a blessing for baby and birth, while honoring the journeys of mommy and daddy that led to his conception. This moment will forever be etched in my heart and commemorated in these beautiful photos.”
#henna #bodyart #hennabelly #pregnancyhenna #RitualHenna #MarkTheMoments #magicalart #hennabodyart
Loving Swans
This expectant mother's vision for her art was truly inspiring, and I was delighted to incorporate her ideas, including the touching symbol of the swan. Her connection to this majestic creature ran deep, as it had served as her spirit animal throughout life.
When I mentioned Women Who Run with the Wolves, her eyes lit up, and we bonded over the timeless tale of the Ugly Duckling, reflecting on the transformative journey of finding one's tribe.
The sea turtle, too, held profound meaning for the new parents, adding another layer of significance to this special commission.
#expectingmother #swan #seaturtle #UglyDuckling #WomenWhoRunWithTheWolves #hennabelly #boulderhenna #coloradohenna #journeytomotherhood #riteofpassage #allnaturalhenna #firsttimemama #pregnancyart
Following the henna session, we ventured into the serene snowy garden, a setting that has become a favorite of mine for capturing photographs throughout the year. The snowfall added a touch of magic to the moment, a sweet reminder of the special circumstances surrounding this winter pregnancy.
#BoulderColorado #snow #winter #pregnancy #pregnancyart #adornment #uniquehennadesign #mothertobe #honoringmothers #bellyart
This lovely couple radiates joy and anticipation, embodying the beauty of new parenthood. Their love and enthusiasm for welcoming a new life is truly heartwarming, offering a refreshing perspective on the world. This photograph was captured on Day 3, when the henna's rich color is at its peak.
#newparents #parenthood #celebratelife #naturalhennastain #celebratewithhenna #hennatattoo #hennastain #soontobeborn #boulderart #bouldermamas #coloradomamas
Winter Doodles
Emerging from winter hibernation, I'm reminded of the importance of self-reflection and creative rejuvenation.
Line art, a childhood passion, takes center stage as I sketch, doodle, and create for joy. This quiet time fuels my intentions and visions for the year ahead.
Zentangle inspires my henna art and informs my creative approach. Doodling is therapeutic, allowing me to enter a flow state where ideas unfold effortlessly.
Creativity is a continuous journey, ebbing and flowing with life's rhythms. I'm constantly creating, exploring, and evolving – one dot, one line at a time.
#lineart #zentangle #doodles #birds #empoweringwomen #hennaflow #boulderart #healingdoodles #linedrawing #zentangle #hennastyle #hennaartist #localartist #coloradoartist #creativewomen #artsymama
Blooming into the role of Mother
This first time mama looked through my page of Pregnancy Design ideas on my website and told me she loved mandalas, the moon, paisleys. Feathers were also a significant personal symbol to her. On further reflection, she added,
“The lotus flower is also a beautiful way to imagine opening and blooming into this future and the role of motherhood.”
I thought that was such a profound and beautiful sentiment.
I loved exploring all the possible ways to blend these elements into a cohesive design, and I was able to sketch out a design for her before she even arrived. It's moments like these that remind me why I love creating meaningful art to honor motherhood.
#moon #paisley #lotus #feathers #customdesign #freehand #coloradoartist #uniquehennadesign #mothertobe #modernhenna #freestyle #nostencil #hennapro #womensart #motherblessing #babyblessing
What a cheerful gathering to honor a mama's rite of passage into motherhood with her two sisters and her niece. I love bearing witness to such a joyful occasion surrounded by so much love and laughter.
As an artist, it was a pleasure spending two and a half hours with them, adorning the mama-to-be and then her family members with a lovely design that beautifully reflected the henna belly art.
#hennabelly #boulderhenna #pregnancyart #journeytomotherhood #riteofpassage#firsttimemama #celebratelife #coloradomamas #hennabellyblessing #pregnancyrituals #mamacelebration #babyshowerideas #sisterhood
Natural henna reaches its peak “tattoo” color after 2 to 3 days. Hands are always darker because our skin is thicker on our hands so there’s more ways for henna to be absorbed.
#motherhood #naturalhenna #hennastain #hennaart #henna #bellyhenna #maternitymehndi #soontobeborn #babybumpart #maternityart #maternityhenna
Crossing the Threshold
I am writing to share how honored I feel to witness women as they prepare to cross the threshold into motherhood, many for the very first time. This rite of passage is significant, and it is a privilege to be part of it.
My approach to this work is rooted in deep listening and my skills as an intuitive artist. I am dedicated to crafting unique works of art that truly honor this transformative period in a woman's life. This creative process brings me immense joy and resonates deeply as my true calling.
I am eager to discuss how I can create a meaningful piece of art for you or someone you know to commemorate this special time. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to learn more. Text me at 303-345-1516 or email SKB@SarahKateButterworth.com
I wanted to share some news about an art project I'm passionate about. I'm continuing my work adorning pregnant models for my upcoming book, which is dedicated to celebrating pregnancy, motherhood, and the inherent beauty of growing life.
If you or someone you know might be interested in modeling for this project, you can find more information and details on how to get involved by visiting my website and reading the dedicated page for models. As of this writing, I still have openings for October and November.
Due to the limitations of the social media platform I'm using, I wanted to share a few moments with you directly. I've put together a selection of just 10 images from the past three months that really capture some sweet memories.
These photos include a beautiful gathering of friends blessing a first-time pregnant mama, a heartwarming shot of a mama-to-be with her own mother (the grandmother-to-be), and a tender moment with a soon-to-be big brother kissing his mother's pregnant belly. I've also included some of my favorite works of art from the summer so far.
I hope you enjoy seeing these special glimpses - to see more photos and read about each mama and the many others I have adorned over the past 3 months, simply keep scrolling through my blog :)
#henna #bodyart #hennabelly #coloradohenna #pregnancyart #pregnancy #ArtMama #Natalhenna #BumpHenna #RitualHenna #MarkTheMoments #Threshold #pregnancyrituals #riteofpassage
