The Gigglebark Tree, a new piece of interactive art, has been introduced in Downtown Duluth. This marks the completion of a project that began with a Playground Design Contest held by the City of Duluth in 2022. The contest received over 175 submissions from Gwinnett County residents, who were asked to design their ideal playgrounds.
The winning design was submitted by Lyn-Nell Huffman. Her design, inspired by a willow tree, became the basis for the Gigglebark Tree. The playground combines elements from several trees, including the colorful bark of a Eucalyptus, the twisting roots of an Overcup Oak, and the swaying branches of a Willow Tree. It also features a slide around the trunk and a root system with steps and tunnels.
The Gigglebark Tree Playground is an addition to the existing Taylor Park playground in Downtown Duluth. Some trees were removed due to disease and the risk they posed to the play area. The City plans to plant new, safer trees with the assistance of an arborist.
While the new trees grow, the City has installed shade sails around the playground to provide shade. Plans are also underway to install permanent lighting to replace the current temporary ground lighting.