Yarn Bombed Tree
Yarn bombing is the latest global street art phenomenon. Sometimes called “Grandma Graffiti,” the idea is to clothe ordinary, mundane objects with brightly colored knitted frocks. Artists sneak out into the night and crochet just about anything that suits their fancy–statues, road signs, fire hydrants, benches…nothing is too big or too small.
I have not had the good fortune to see this sort of graffiti in person but I can imagine that the bright, soft texture of the yarn would seem like an oxymoron in a sea of urban concrete and steel. And that is the point! These crocheted trophies must evoke memories of cuddling in grandma’s crochet blanket as a child; perhaps they add feelings of comfort and security in the wild urban streetscape. I know that if I saw a yarn bombed street bench, it would bring a smile to my face.
I believe that when these clever and talented yarn bombers create spontaneous delightful surprises, they touch all who bear witness. The unexpected can be inspiring.
“Beauty is the bait which with delight allures man to enlarge his kind.” ~ Socrates
Charging Bull near Wall Street, NYC