Some time ago, likely on Instagram, I discovered the work of Thomas Dambo, a Danish artist who describes himself as a “Recycle Artist and Activist.” His larger-than-life Trolls made from reclaimed wood captivated me. They are all built and placed in natural places and are just so fun. At the time I started following his work, they were only found in places around Europe. But he’s since begun building them around the US, though, they were still quite far away. Now, his traveling exhibition TROLLS: Save the Humans is at the Virginia Aquarium in Virginia Beach—where I live. I was beyond excited to see this and when my oldest was home for fall break, the family went over for a visit.
They’re magical. The child in me is just over the moon to be around them. I would go every week if I didn’t have to buy a ticket to see them. I both enjoy the character design—Dambo’s ability to give them such personality in form and design, and the fact that they’re made of reclaimed wood. The details are lovely—toe nails, nostrils, ears, and teeth; the accessories that help us understand each troll’s individual interests; the way he uses small slats of wood to make them look furry.
If you’re in the area, or if you live in an area where they’ll be visiting, go see them. You won’t regret it.
