'Radical Lace & Subversive Knitting'

Untitled work by Hildur Bjarnadóttir, crocheted cotton yarn on a wood table, part of the exhibit ‘Radical Lace & Subversive Knitting’

Traditional crafts such as knitting, crocheting and lace-making are gaining in popularity, so it is no surprise that the Indiana State Museum would host the exhibit Radical Lace & Subversive Knitting, which runs April 25-Aug. 24.

The exhibit, organized and circulated by the Museum of Arts & Design in New York, is making its first stop outside New York. It features contemporary, unorthodox takes on these old-is-new crafts. There are about 40 textiles handcrafted by 27 artists, four of which will travel to Indianapolis to create custom installations for the ISM lobby and gallery.

The pieces in the exhibit range from massive to minute, edgy to enchanting. Dale Cole knits with backhoes and telephone poles, while Bloomington, Ind., resident Althea Crome makes her “nano-knit” garments using fine medical wire as “needles.” Non-traditional materials are evident, as well, such as rubber, lead, glass, industrial wire shelving and found objects.

The exhibit is free with museum admission: $7, $6.50 for seniors, $4 for children ages 3-12. For more information, call 317-232-1637 or go to www.indianamuseum.org. The ISM is at 650 W. Washington St.