Tiovivo: Whimsical Sculptures by Jaime Hayon

Tiovivo: Whimsical Sculptures by Jaime Hayon is the third in a series of large-scale interactive installations on the Carroll Slater Sifly Piazza. Hayon (Spanish, born 1974) created a site-specific work that features four wooden sculptures in the familiar shapes of animals or objects, such as a pig or a bell, that inspire playfulness and joy. Each whimsical structure features a colorful 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.

Tiovivo continues an innovative multiyear initiative to animate the piazza by engaging visitors in art. This installation transforms the space into an outdoor art gallery, playground, and refuge, creating an atmosphere for socializing and recreation. Tiovivo is also a stage for performances, art-making activities, and special events co-organized with local partner institutions.

The installation builds on the success of the 2014 and 2015 commissions Mi Casa, Your Casa and Los Trompos (The Spinning Tops) by Mexican designers Héctor Esrawe and Ignacio Cadena. Originally planned as a two-year project, the piazza activation program has been extended through 2017 thanks to funding from the Lettie Pate Evans Foundation through a grant to The Woodruff Arts Center.