Knitta, please

I took a quick walk down State Street today and what did my eyes spy but some seriously garish colors where once there had only been the cold modernism of the city's "fancy" new bus stops.

I approached the friendly girl still putting the finishing touches on some of the knit work inside the shelter, and she explained that the "yarn bombing" was part of the Madison fall Gallery Night, which is happening again this weekend. The UW's Department of Design Studies' Design Gallery is responsible for this very cool piece of street art. And you can get your knit on, too, if so inclined - check here for more.

Edit to add: Turns out this "Cozy Shelter" was purchased by the City of Madison from the UW Design Gallery as a BLINK temporary art project. Points to the city for supporting such a cool program.

Wash hands

I wandered out into the golden light of early evening this past Friday in order to check out some of what was on offer for Gallery Night, when Madison's artists throw open the doors of their musty studios and allow the public to wander through and check out their wares. It's a fantastic idea, and the crowds of people that can be seen walking from place to place are a testament to the events popularity. I'm all for anything that makes art more accessible to everyone.

While I was out, I came across this sticker--apropos especially because of the current debate over our country's use of torture. The piece is by Gitmo Jesus, (aka P.S. Mueller) a staple here on the near east side and Madison at large.