Communities in Ontario’s Niagara Region are paying tribute to Remembrance Day by adorning their museums, churches, and legions with crocheted poppies through the Poppy Project. The initiative, spearheaded by Christine Girardi, an assistant curator at the Niagara Falls History Museum, began as a local community art project earlier in 2020.
Girardi emphasized the importance of connecting with history and engaging the community by honoring Remembrance Day and the sacrifices made during various wars involving Canadian troops. The Poppy Project gained international recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 11,000 knitted poppies collected from across Canada, the U.S., and Europe. Yvonne Miller, a member of the StickN’ Needles Guild, highlighted how the project provided a sense of accomplishment during the challenging pandemic period.
The installations of knitted poppies at museums, churches, and legions in Niagara have sparked reflection on Remembrance Day and the sacrifices made by individuals who fought for Canada. Joanne Ring, the exterior lead artist of the Poppy Project, expressed the symbolic significance of each knitted poppy representing a Canadian veteran.
The displays will remain in place until November 12, offering a poignant visual reminder of the significance of Remembrance Day. The Poppy Project has inspired various institutions in Niagara to create their own poppy installations, aiming to encourage contemplation on the importance of honoring and remembering the sacrifices of those who served the country.
In addition to the Poppy Project, Niagara is commemorating Remembrance Day through various services and parades across different towns and cities in the region. These events provide opportunities for the community to come together and pay tribute to the veterans who have served and sacrificed for the country.