
For over a decade, visitors to Jumpers & Jazz in July have marvelled at the imaginative yarn art installations crafted by our yarn bombing team, the Yarntopians. Their work, nestled at the crossroads of art and craft, continually surprises viewers by repurposing the traditional skills and materials we associate with cozy jumpers and rugs into unexpected, large-scale wonders.
Initially brought together by Warwick Art Gallery to yarn bomb the large tree in the Gallery garden and the iconic Warwick Town Hall, the Yarntopians quickly attracted attention for their ingenuity. In 2014, they ventured indoors with “Knitchen,” a life-sized vintage kitchen installed at Warwick Art Gallery, entirely crafted from knitted, crocheted, felted and yarn-wrapped elements. From the black and white chequered floor tiles to the flying ducks adorning the wall, every detail was meticulously crafted, captivating audiences and sparking a viral sensation on social media.
The Yarntopians’ subsequent “yarnstallations” have continued to captivate imaginations. From a life-size gypsy caravan to an “off-the-grid” cottage and a retro living room, each creation has pushed the boundaries of traditional craft work. In 2022, the Yarntopians became part of the Jumpers & Jazz in July Inc. team. Their first installation in this new journey was “Café de la Laine” (The Wool Café), which transformed a vintage shop into a 1920s French cafe, transporting visitors to another era. Last year’s “Curiouser & Curiouser” installation at Kings Theatre drew inspiration from the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland.
Crafting these large-scale marvels is no small feat, involving between 50 and 100 contributors and taking up to ten months to complete. Knitters and crocheters from across Australia send in their pieces, while a dedicated local team of 12 to 15 members assembles and installs the artwork over regular working bees.
The keys to a successful “yarnstallation” lie in meticulous planning and inclusive design. Easily replicable elements for home crafting and a welcoming atmosphere for crafters of all skill levels ensure broad participation. Regular working bees bring the projects to life, while the creative vision of the team members ensures each installation has the Yarntopians’ signature energy, colour and humour.
The heart of this process lies in the team’s collaborative spirit and creative freedom. From bouncing ideas off one another to adapting and evolving their designs throughout the installation process, their work thrives on a delicate balance between structure and spontaneity.
Beyond the artistic endeavour, yarn bombing fosters community and camaraderie. Working alongside like-minded individuals, friendships bloom, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a novice, there’s a place for everyone in the yarn bombing community. Even those without knitting or crocheting skills can contribute with tassels, pompoms, or French knitting, making it an inclusive and fun experience for all.
You can find the Yarntopians’ 2024 installation, “Yarnival” at the St Marks precinct.
To join the team, visit: jumpersandjazz.com.au/applications/yarnbombing
Written by Loretta Grayson