Toowoomba artists Chris Just and Jayne Hodge Mothers’ Memorial Anzac Day installation
A tribute of 20,000 poppies and violets knitted in the memory of soldiers who fought and the women who served during World War II will appear this week at Mothers’ Memorial in Toowoomba.
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A knitted tapestry of 20,000 poppies and violets will appear at a Toowoomba park on Anzac Day in memory of the men and women who served in World War II as part of the city’s Anzac commemorations.
The knitting needles of artists Chris Just and Jayne Hodge have been busy over the past six years, as they, along with volunteers all over Australia, have knitted their way to the biggest and most ambitious art installation of poppies and violets to be revealed on Anzac Day 2024.
The knitting duo have accumulated 20,000 poppies and violets and are threading them together in to honour the memory of the brave soldiers who fought in World War II.
A quarter of the flowers are violets, in memory of the women who sold sweet violets to raise funds to build the memorial for the sons they lost during the war, Ms Just said.
The installation will cover the Mother’s Memorial at the park on the corner of Margaret and Kitchener streets opposite Queen’s Park.
Each knitted flower tells the story of sacrifice, love and resilience, not just of the soldiers, but also the women who gave them unwavering support – the mothers, daughters, brides, sweethearts, and sisters.
“As the daughter of a World War II veteran, I am deeply moved by the sacrifices made by my father and countless others,” Ms Just said.
“This installation is a tribute to their bravery and resilience, as well as the strength and support of the women who held our families together during those tumultuous times.”
Ms Hodge said the project was a personal journey of remembrance and gratitude.
“Through our art, we hope to honour the memories of our fathers and all those who served, while also acknowledging the vital role played by the women who provided love and support on the home front,” she said.
The installation, Memories in Bloom: A Tribute to Our Heroes, will be unveiled at Mothers’ Memorial on Anzac Day, April 25, and remain on display until Monday, April 29, 2024.
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