As craftsmanship becomes increasingly popular, contemporary artists around the world are exploring the creative possibilities of age-old traditions. Recently, Spanish crochet teacher Eva Pacheco showed that textiles can do more than just keep you warm in winter. She and her students created a colossal canopy made from dozens of crocheted squares.
This handmade awning is installed in the main commercial corridor of the town of Alhaurín de la Torre, in the south of Spain, in Malaga. The project started three years ago after the city council’s environment department looked for a more sustainable way to shade the busy pedestrian area in summer. Since then, Pacheco and his students have continued to add to their creation – using recycled fabric in a variety of vibrant colors – so that it now covers almost 500 square meters (5,381 square feet).
When people walk under the masterpiece in progress, they can admire a variety of different patterns, including geometric, floral, and abstract. Not only does this coating provide shade for shoppers, but it also decorates the street with whimsical art.
Crochet teacher Eva Pacheco and her students have created a colorful crochet canopy for the main shopping area in the Spanish town of Alhaurín de la Torre.
