We recently connected with Oneisha Thompson and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Oneisha, thanks for joining us today. Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?

As an unconventional henna artist, my work is constantly being misunderstood. While I do enjoy doing traditional styles of henna art and made a point to do research before calling myself a henna artist, I do love offering people the opportunity to get permanent style tattoos in a semi-permanent option. I am always asked do I offer permanent tattoos and if not, I should. Personally, I have given some thought to becoming a permanent artist, but I am more than happy with where I am. Not to mention, it is super rewarding when people do ask if my designs are permanent considering I am a freehand artist. It does become frustrating at times being constantly berated with the ideal of being forced into a box of being a tattoo artist when any form of art should just be appreciated as it is. When I first started this business, I must admit I was unaware of what it would become, but now, I realize that my art is not for everyone and I am okay with that.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am an unconventional henna artist. While I do offer traditional styles, I find the most joy by doing regular tattoo designs in a temporary fashion. People are constantly amazed by what I can can accomplish in such a short amount of time just by looking at a photo. All my designs are freehand meaning I do not use stencils, I just look at a photo and make it happen. I got into henna art because there was a lack of services in my current area. As someone who never saw themselves as an entrepreneur, the idea just kind of fell on my lap. I offer designs all over the body and even have options of using henna to cover up permanent tattoos. What sets me a part from other artists I believe is overall vision for my business and my ability to let client’s create their own narrative. I do not limit them to a particular design or pattern as customary for traditional henna. The sky is truly the limit for whatever they may want. The thing I can say I am most proud of I’d my consistency and my drive. Despite whatever may come my way or things that try to deter me, I remain focus and remember why it is I started my business in the first place. Ultimately, when clients come to me, they should know that no matter what design they may desire, I ensure to deliver while making sure they have a great time being able to express themselves.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My ultimate goal as a henna artist is to create an environment conducive to healing and therapy. Many of client’s are always telling me how therapeutic my sessions are and calming which is what I would like more people to be able to experience. Since I do not offer an age range for who can receive henna, children as well as adults love the opportunity to have a different form of creative freedom. Seeing the smiles on client’s faces and hearing then rave about their designs is all the motivation I need to continue to do what I love.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

When I first started my business, like most businesses, it began just an idea or in my case a simple conversation amongst friends. As someone who hated art as a child, I definitely did not forsee myself taking on a business that was completely art based, especially since all my designs are freehand. My business did not actually take form until covid was heavily rampant. As if that was not enough, I was also in school full-time getting my masters in Psychology. After a year’s time, I decided to shift from solely being a vendor to an actual shop. At the time, it seemed like a brash move, but I would not have it any other way. Granted, I have my good days and bad days just like any other business, but my passion and dedication keep me moving forward in anticipation of what is to come.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://squareup.com/appointments/book/LRVG1AJ3P8YAB
• Instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/hen.naspice
• Facebook: Https://www.facebook.com/hen.naspice