January 2025
After a stressful start of winter and challenging climates, I liked the idea of taking another look at yarn bombing and how crochet was found to be an important antidote for one woman's struggle with anxiety and depression.
Nicole Nikolich, an artist in Philadelphia, has struggled with anxiety and depression. It affects her when she least expects it and then subsides. At age 25, after various treatments, a doctor suggested that other outlets could calm her mind and suggested that she learn how to crochet. Nicole loved craftwork as a child and was familiar with different types of crafts, so she signed on to Youtube to learn crochet. Within two weeks, she was able to crochet, and Nicole was making small swatches for mini-yarnbombing that she placed around her artful community. As her skills improved, she began to do larger projects with themes that addressed mental health, pop art, etc.
It Will Get Bigger, Niklovich
Inspired by the "beautiful colors, textures, the use of both hands and lots of counting," Nicole found herself "present in the moment" when she crocheted as if was a "meditation."
While in college, Nicole didn't understand the "working artist lane." She thought that becoming a famous artist or a struggling artist were her two choices. So she got a degree in Fashion. Today she is a working artist and calls her work of art, "Crochet Installations."
Listen to Nicole Nikolich's story on the Art Outside Podcast. Follow Nicole @lace_in_the_moon on Instagram.
I caught the yarn bombing bug in 2010 and have done various iterations since then. The book, Yarn Bombing: The Art of Crochet and Knit Graffiti was published in 2009. I've written about the topics on this blog several times.
Most crocheters have often noted the rhythm of their hands and hook as a meditation. How about the rhythm of our hearts? Studies have shown crochet is relaxing and may lower blood pressure.
I would love to hear comments on any influences crochet has had on your life!
Comments