Kate Jenkins Opens Knitted Italian Deli 'Kate's Knitalian' at Air Contemporary, London
In London, British textile artist Kate Jenkins has turned Air Contemporary into 'Kate's Knitalian', a whimsical knitted deli featuring yarn-crafted salami, cheese, spaghetti, and canned goods. This unique exhibition will be on display from 1 November to 5 December 2026 at 4 Ham Yard, Soho W1D 7DT. Over the past few years, Jenkins has developed this concept, drawing inspiration from her travels in Italy. She composes her knit and crochet 'recipes' at 5am, with some pieces, like a crocheted Chianti bottle, taking several days to complete. Among the offerings are 'cuddleoni' and sardine tins that nod to Italian brands. Jenkins hopes to amuse and charm visitors while redefining the perception of knitting.
Key facts
- 'Kate's Knitalian' runs 1 November to 5 December 2026 at Air Contemporary, 4 Ham Yard, Soho W1D 7DT, London
- The exhibition is a knitted and crocheted Italian restaurant and deli by British textile artist Kate Jenkins
- Works include yarn salami, cheese, pasta, tinned goods, a 'cuddleoni' cannoli piece and sardine tins referencing Rio Mare Tuna and Pollastrini Sardines
- A single Chianti bottle takes several days: crocheted bottle, machine-knitted label, hand-embroidered and sewn
- Jenkins' first solo show, 'Comfort Food', was shown in Brighton, then London and New York
- Hermès commissioned Jenkins for the opening windows of its Maison at 166 New Bond Street, London
- Jenkins typically starts work around 5am, writing knit and crochet 'recipes' before the studio
- The venue sits in the courtyard of Ham Yard Hotel
Entities
Artists
- Kate Jenkins
- Tianna Williams
Institutions
- Air Contemporary
- Ham Yard Hotel
- Hermès
- Wallpaper
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- Soho
- New Bond Street
- Brighton
- New York
- United States
- Italy