Doll’s Head Trail in Atlanta

Over the last 5 years, I have made many trips to Atlanta to visit our daughter. Each time, we have explored a new place and on my most recent visit, Alix took me to the Doll’s Head Trail. The trail is located within the city perimeter, tucked away in Constitution Lakes Park and while it is not exactly easy to find-so signs are posted for it, it is well worth the effort needed to find it. That is provided you have an open mind, a fondness for “found object” art and a dark sense of humor. The area itself is full of history and at one time, was the site of a brick manufacturer but what it is really known for is that it frequently gets flooded and that is key to the art installations on the trail. Unlike most art parks/trails, where adding to the displays or even building new displays is not allowed, on the Doll’s Head Trail, you are encouraged to use objects found within the park to create work. Actually, the only rule is that it must me made from garbage and junk already present in the park and if you carry in new things to use, they will be removed.

The dolls heads are everywhere, so is graffiti.

We wandered slowly along the trail, continually finding little treasures

and graffiti, lots and lots of graffiti

some of the work was clever and imaginitive

other things were humorous

quite a bit of it was creepy

This collection of shoes was amazing-look at the moss on the boots. Love the Shoeless Joe Jackson reference, had to explain that one.

And of course, a common sense public announcement. This will be a place I must return to on occasion, especially after a big rain event. It will be very interesting to see what washes up and how it is used in the artwork on the trail.