OVERSIZED FUN
15 Jun 2016
Giant wooden animals form this unique playground on the grounds of the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, delighting children (or scaring them) with their oversized presence and bright visages.
Children can crawl into the rear end of a wooden pig when visiting this playground installation by Spanish designer Jaime Hayón at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta. Hayón’s Tiovivo is constructed from wood, with the pieces designed to be climbed over and clambered inside of – providing an area for children to play.
The installations are shaped to look like animals or everyday objects, and decorated with different colours and patterns. "Each whimsical structure features a colourful pattern, ranging from polka dots to stripes, and sets of stairs and slides with openings specifically sized for children that encourage guests to interact with the sculptures," said the museum.
A pig covered in red and white chevrons has a small flight of steps leading up to its back end, so small visitors can climb inside and hide in its hollow belly. Children can also step into the mouth of a yellow head with rounded ears and a cylindrical snout, or slide out of the belly of a seated black and white monkey.
The designer is well known for the use of animal forms in his work. Tiovivo also includes a blue-spotted bell with two access staircases either side of a slide. The sculptures are scattered around the courtyard, which offers views of the city's Downtown skyscrapers.
"The installation transforms the space into an outdoor art gallery, playground and summer refuge, creating an atmosphere for socialising and recreation," said the institution.
Tiovivo runs from 3 June to 27 November 2016 at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, USA.