Artist Statement
I use crochet to make eye-catching images that I staple to the clapboard buildings in my community. The images I create are intended to surprise, delight and inspire. These temporary pieces do not leave a mark on the building but do imprint the viewer by eliciting conscious and unconscious associations with fiber and street art. I believe that art should be accessible and that it has the power to create happier and healthier communities. As a result, I am thrilled to participate in this show and contribute 'wearable street art' inspired by the shores of my province alongside so many other wonderful Newfoundland and Labrador artists.
Artist Bio:
Nina Elliott is a fiber artist in Twillingate, Newfoundland who makes art as The Rock Vandal. She grew up in Hamilton Ontario and moved to Twillingate to work as an Occupational Therapist.
After knitting too many hats she began experimenting with fiber-based street art and became completely hooked.
She has now installed art in 9 countries, contributed to the International Yarnbombing Festival in Italy and represented Canada at the 2021 World Heavy Metal Knitting Championships. In 2020, amidst the early COVID lockdowns she launched Newfoundland's Outdoor Art Gallery as a way to uplift her community and share her work. In 2022, the now annual event received ArtsNL funding allowing her to invite international artists.
Inspired by her career in Occupational Therapy Nina believes that art should be accessible and that it has the power to create happier and healthier communities. This philosophy has fuelled her creative journey and resulted in collaborations with brands such as Shorefast and Robins Donuts as well as festivals across the country.
Connect with Nina:
Instagram: @rock_vandal
Website: www.rockvandal.com
