Crochet Coral Reef

I have been meaning to show you one of my favorite things we saw on our spring break to DC last month. In the Museum of Natural History, in the back of the oceans hall, they have this crocheted coral reef. This picture just shows the front; it extended back through that open space.

Over 800 people contributed their work to make this massive, woolly, marine extravaganza. I have never seen any kind of craft--and few pieces of public art--draw people in like the crochet coral reef did. I spent a long time going over it. You could study it from every angle and still not see everything. Walking around it made me feel like a kid. I felt joy.

Some little dainties like this were in their own display.

In this white section, some of the pieces incorporate plastic trash, like bags and other junk that winds up in the ocean. As much as I love the colored sections, the whites might be my favorite. All of the delicate creams and ecrus. I am so glad we got to see it.

I don't know how much longer this will be in the Smithsonian, but it is worth a look if you are in the neighborhood. When you come in the back door of the museum, you are practically right by it. Then you can walk through the ocean hall, under the whale, then admire the big stuffed elephant, elbow through the Harry Winston Gallery, then go and get an espresso while your husband enjoys the giant sloths. That will be a very nice afternoon for you.

Crocheted Coral Reef, also here and here.