Project: Caress
This project represents a study of the bone structure of mammals, using crochet as its technique for creating that structure. It is an attempt to explore the shape of animals from the inside, examining how their skeletons have adapted to their circumstances. The pieces include both endangered species and popular pets, many of which suffer as a result of reckless breeding. The skeleton symbolises vulnerability, the end of life, the point of no return. Each piece is created one crochet stitch at a time, following the form of the bones, in much the same way as cells are produced in the body. The project is designed to draw attention to the wondrous world we are privileged to share with so many amazing species, but whose lives many of us consider unimportant. In addition to those depicted here, life-sized skeletons of a dhole, a galago, a red wolf, a capuchin monkey, hyenas and other animals are also in production. Follow @udemeluud on Instagram!
Inside a Tasmanian Devil – Lifesize Crochet 2021
The Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) has the most powerful bite for its size of any mammal on Earth. The relative strength of its jaws stems primarily from the fact that its head is large compared to the rest of its body. Its teeth are very strong and ideal for crushing bone. What also makes it special is that when it is agitated, the insides of its ears flush a crimson colour. However, this marsupial, with its powerful skeleton, is only found in Tasmania, where the greatest threats to its existence are a facial tumour disease peculiar to the species and the risk of being run over while eating roadkill in situ. Material: silk mohair yarn Dimensions: 20 x 50 x 55 cm
Inside a Flying Fox I – III – Lifesize Crochet 2019 – 2020
Flying fox ( Pteropus) has a large and robust skull, arm and hand bones are similar to our hands, with four fingers and an elongated thumb. On the end of the thumb is a hook. Flying foxes are the largest flying mammals. Feeding on nectar, fruit and flowers, they play a key role in the pollination of many species of plant. As of 2008, the large flying fox is evaluated as a near-threatened species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The biggest threats they face are hunters and the destruction of their habitats as forests vanish. Skeletal dimensions correspond to real flying fox dimensions. Material: silk mohair yarn Dimensions: 45 x 30 x 25 cm
Inside a Cat I – IV – Lifesize Crochet 2016 – 2019
Cats have been companions to human beings since ancient times. They have been bred to be dependent on us and have often been exploited for their predatory qualities. Cat skulls are unusual among mammals for having such large eye sockets and such a powerful jaw. Their front legs are connected to their shoulders by freely moving collarbones, enabling them to squeeze their bodies through any opening their head fits through. They are cute and graceful but have to make do with a scratching post and mass-produced cat biscuits. They are also found in countless numbers on the streets, in animal shelters and in the clutches of uncaring owners. Material: wool-blend yarn Dimensions: 12 x 40 x 50 cm
Other Works of Art – Technique: crochet
X’ mas Riddle with X X-ray Fingers – Crochet 2018
It’s X’ mas and still does not feel like that. Just stress and duties. Crossing fingers that all will be fine. It is the most controversial time of the year. View captured from six sides. Life size hands are foldable and have golden shade.
Accepting My Paranoia – Crochet, Mohair 2008
Skeleton of a child as a symbol of injustice. Being a parent means being terrified, anxious and paranoid. I crocheted my daughters (3 years old) skeleton to accept my intrusive thoughts. It was difficult to deal with anxiety but I accepted the fact that something life-shattering might happen to her. Pinkish mohair emphasizes the form’s vulnerability, making it even more juvenile. The length of the skeleton is 92cm.