Yarn Bombing

Back in October when we first went to Devonport, New Zealand we saw this tree.

Devonport, New Zealand, October, 2014

We did not know what this was, but have since learned that it is a unique type of graffiti.  It is called yarn bombing.  There are several towns in New Zealand that have this type of art.

We have seen yarn bombing in Devonport, Rotorua, Tauranga and have heard it is in many other little towns.  On Anzac Day we visited the Naval Museum in Devonport and learned that all the poppies which were displayed on the walls were also a form of yarn bombing.  All yarn bombing employs colorful displays of knitted or crocheted yarn rather than paint or chalk.   Then the various pieces are put together to complete the project.

Elder and Sister Leben, Susan and Gary in Devonport, New Zealand

Devonport, New Zealand

Devonport, New Zealand

Devonport, New Zealand

Devonport Naval Museum

Rotorua, New Zealand

Tauranga, New Zealand courtesy greertonvillage.org.nz

Some interesting facts we learned about yarn bombing was that the people have yarn bombed all over Europe as well as in New York and Los Angeles.  You might enjoy this video about how some ladies yarn bombed the railing at the wharf in Devonport, New Zealand.  The railing no longer has yarn on it, which was a bit of a disappointment but you can see a video clip here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9z-gu2Oi6F

This link tells about a festival they have in Tauranga - just might have to go there this year.

http://tauranga.kete.net.nz/tauranga_local_history/topics/show/1407-greerton-guerilla-yarn-bombing-2013

Stay tuned for more interesting facts about New Zealand.  We have been a wee bit delinquent in our posts, but will work on catching up before we go on our next adventure.