Fiber Art as Playground by Toshiko Horiuchi MacAdam
By Caissa "Cami" McClinton – 11 CommentsI thought we’d take a peek into the world of crocheted artworks every now and then. This week we’ll talk about Japanese and Canadian artist Toshiko Horiuchi MacAdam.
When appreciating the massive artworks by MacAdam, you don’t have to keep your hands off the art. Many of her works are literally colorful playgrounds meant for children to enjoy, but they didn’t start out that way. The idea was born when children climbed onto a gallery installation resembling a hammock. MacAdam observed as her artwork as it changed shape and was inspired.
Years later, the magical work called Takino Rainbow Nest was installed in the Takino Suzuran National Park in Hokkaido, Japan. MacAdam creates the sturdy pieces by hand, crocheting nylon cord ordered by the ton.
I adore the idea of crocheting something on such a large scale, and the fact that this work brings joy to the community makes it all the more meaningful.
Do you think the kids in you life would like this? Have any of you crocheted a hammock or swing?
I would love to crochet a hammock. I just need to figure out what kind of yarn(s) to use. Any ideas?
never mind any children in my life, I want one!
I have seen photos of this “crochet art” by Toshiko Horiuchi MacAdam previously… it’s SO UNIQUE! I don’t know how it was crocheted????? Has to be so tough & sturdy for children to play on it…. Thanks for more photos. Sarah Helene, Minneapolis, MN
That looks totally awesome and so fun!
I found it interesting that they call it a KNITTED playground. Sure looks crocheted to me and their is a picture on a page about the artist. It sure looks like a crochet hook in her hand. http://www.archdaily.com/297941/meet-the-artist-behind-those-amazing-hand-knitted-playgrounds/50afd3e0b3fc4b0cad0000ca_meet-the-artist-behind-those-amazing-hand-knitted-playgrounds-_dscn1304-jpg/
That is indeed crochet! It irks me when people use the terms “crochet” and “knitting” interchangeably. Good call.
I’m trying to do this in my backyard! I’m still bewildered as to the stitch she used — any ideas? Im guessing a dc, ch, dc, ch… Im using 6mm macrame braided cord – Perfect for a hammock, Grace — though not as soft as the nylon braided cord she used here — and had to dye herself!! (I have done a lot of research on this project!!)
Hi osmissy
I’m glad you did the research, I was starting to think I wouldn’t be able to find out! Why are you choosing to use 6mm macrame braided cord and not the nylon braided cord she used? Is it because your hammock will be outside? Is 6mm what she used in hers? Also do you know what stitch she used?!
Thanks in advance!
oh also do you know how many meters of cord you need per square meter of net? Or if it’s easy how many meters of cord your using for your hammock and how big it will be?!
hi, was wondering if you ever figured out what kind of stitch she used? I am trying to make something similar. And where can you source bulk quantities of that kind of yarn?
hmmm thanks,
Cynara
I visited it last month during a rainy day with my good friends. I really felt the happiness from both kids and parents, and the colors are very beautiful and blissful. what’s an insightful arts for this wonderful world for kids. Yes, it will be so nice if we can attend a workshop taught or demonstrated by Toshiko Horiuchi MacAdam.