Bella Vista in Bloom: A Vibrant Yarn Bomb Returns for Its Third Year
Bella Vista in Bloom, the beloved temporary public art installation, is returning for its third year, running from June 11 through July 11. This year’s display promises to be a spectacular explosion of color and creativity, featuring new handmade items crafted by local fiber artisans since January.
The installation, coordinated by the city's Arts Council, will showcase an array of flowers, stems, leaves, and other whimsical creations. These new additions will join pieces from previous years, transforming five locations throughout Bella Vista into vibrant art displays, also known as “yarn bombs.”
Art enthusiasts can enjoy the installations at the following locations:
Gear Garden at Blowing Springs
Bella Vista Public Library’s gardens
Settlers’ cabin at the Bella Vista Historical Museum
Six-foot chain link fence behind Bella Vista Fire Station No. 1, facing U.S. Hwy. 71
Loch Lomond dog park at 59 Glasgow Road
A new highlight this year is the traveling Selfie Station, designed by installation co-leaders Teresa Oller and Barbara Pelton. This interactive feature includes a large tree adorned with flower-dotted branches. Visitors are encouraged to find “bloomers” – separate crocheted flowers hidden at the Library, the Museum, and the Gear Garden. These bloomers come with instructions for adding them to the Selfie Station, fostering community participation in the art display.
Additional new items include a yarn-wrapped bicycle and colorful hula hoops. Over 30 dedicated volunteers have crocheted or knitted individual pieces and donated yarn or funds for supplies. In the final week leading up to the display, volunteers gather to assemble and install the artworks across the city.
Stay connected with Bella Vista in Bloom on Instagram to keep track of the latest activities and the Selfie Station’s location. When visiting, don’t forget to post a selfie, tagging the City of Bella Vista (@cityofbellavista) and using hashtags #BVinBloom and #bellavistaar.
To join in the fun and help build a sense of community through public art, consider volunteering. Join the Bella Vista in Bloom Facebook group for updates on needed items and schedules for assembly, installation, and removal of the art for reuse next year. No needlework skills are required for the installation and take-down stages, making this a perfect opportunity for anyone interested in contributing to this colorful community event.
