The Subtleties of Hyperbole

It seems fitting that a fibers technique so extravagant and exaggerated as this would carry the name hyperbolic crochet. The name is based not only on the over-the-top quality of these sculptures, but also the hyperbolic geometry that informs the shapes and designs of this craft.

Hyperbolic crochet has been adopted as a sculptural art expression by many artists and groups dedicated to fiber arts. When I first discovered some images and articles about hyperbolic crochet, I mentioned them to my genius friend, Ann Myhre. As has happened so often in our young friendship, Ann replied that she was not only familiar with the technique, but had mastered it. We plotted to launch a workshop highlighting hyperbolic crochet in the future.

Well, my yarn fiends, the future is here and it looks like an alien landscape of sorts. The photos here are from The Institute For Figuring in Los Angeles, California -- The IFF initiated the first installations of crocheted coral reefs and has since sponsored them all across the country -- in New York, Florida, Arizona, North Carolina and many others. What do you think, Denver -- shall we create a satellite coral reef? Sure looks like more fun than a barrel of monkeys. By the way, that last statement is an example of hyberbole. To join our workshop: info and registration here.