Henna at Hilltop High

On November 24 Hilltop High School was a coming home of sorts for local artist and business owner Justine Vandenhouten as she taught current students henna in the very same classroom she was taught in 10 years ago. “I absolutely love it! It’s nostalgic. I never thought in a million years I would get to come back here to Hilltop and teach alongside my old teacher,” said Justine who was all smiles as she walked among the students.

Hilltop teacher Katrina Zack has been teaching art for 10 years and Justine was a student in her first year. “She was in my very first art class. It’s awesome that she will come in and teach us things because our art styles are polar opposites so it’s nice to have that diversity.” Mrs. Zack admitted that inviting Justine in to teach henna was a bit of a selfish bid because she wanted to learn how to do it just as much as the students, “I had never done henna and I wanted to learn it (laughing). I thought it would be fun to bring her in and learn it.”

Three different classes and over 70 students took part in the experience, doodling intricate designs on themselves and their friends. “It normally takes six hours for one arm or one leg with regular henna, so take your time,” said Justine, reminding students to relax and enjoy the process.

When asked how she feels about seeing one of her students find such success in something she helped inspire, Katrina said her heart is full. “I’m so proud of what Justine has brought to the community. She’s always eager to come and give back in my classroom and I’m very grateful for that.  It’s a partnership between the community, business, and our school that promotes the arts. Working together will further that tremendously,” said Mrs. Zack to which Justine immediately agreed.

The exploratory learning was a big hit with students. Emma Sebo, grade 10 student, said the opportunity was great to be a part of and that she’s “wanted to do henna for a while now.”

On December 1, Evermore Artistry, Justine’s art studio in downtown Whitecourt, will celebrate its one-year anniversary. Over the last 365 days, up to 5,000 people have painted in the store. “It’s amazing! It feels like I have had the studio so long yet it’s been a blink at the same time. My store is a sanctuary because everyone is accepted. It invites people to run away with their craft and I love that I can give them a space to do that.”

The studio also has great Christmas gift ideas with local artwork and offers gift certificates that allow a wide range of experiences to be shared.  Contact the studio at 780-778-1999 for class information including the upcoming Winter Camp.