A whimsical new art installation blending folklore with environmental advocacy has taken root at a historic California estate. Danish artist Thomas Dambo, renowned for transforming discarded materials into colossal sculptures, unveiled his latest work, Trolls Save the Humans, at Filoli—a 654-acre woodland garden and National Historic Place near San Francisco. Crafted from reclaimed wood and recycled objects, the towering trolls invite visitors to reflect on humanity’s relationship with nature while celebrating communal creativity.
Situated among ancient oaks and winding trails, each of Dambo’s hand-built figures carries a distinctive story and purpose, positioning them as guardians of the natural world. One troll peers through binoculars to spot endangered species, while another cradles a nest of twigs as a plea for habitat conservation. These narratives align with the broader Trail of a Thousand Trolls initiative, Dambo’s global project spanning 20 countries, from South Korea to Brazil. Since 2014, over 120 trolls have emerged in public spaces worldwide, constructed with the help of local volunteers using surplus materials like pallets, branches, and scrap metal.
Filoli’s decision to host the exhibit underscores its commitment to merging art, history, and ecological stewardship. The century-old estate, once a private residence, now uses its sprawling grounds to highlight urgent environmental issues through immersive experiences. “These sculptures are more than just art—they’re mirrors showing us the power of collaboration and the consequences of waste,” said a Filoli representative.
Dambo’s approach emphasizes accessibility and collective action. Volunteers from the Bay Area contributed over 1,500 hours to assemble the trolls, a process designed to demonstrate how discarded materials can find new life through creativity. The installation’s title, Trolls Save the Humans, inverts traditional folklore narratives, framing mythical beings as protectors guiding people toward sustainable practices.
As climate concerns intensify, Dambo’s work exemplifies how public art can inspire tangible change. Previous installations have sparked community cleanups and recycling drives in cities like Denver and Melbourne. By embedding ecological themes into unexpected settings, the project challenges viewers to reconsider their role in preserving natural ecosystems.
With millions visiting Filoli annually, the trolls’ presence amplifies a global conversation on consumption and conservation. The estate plans to keep the installation on display for at least two years, offering workshops on upcycling and habitat restoration. Meanwhile, Dambo continues expanding his troll trail, with upcoming projects slated for Norway and Nepal—reminders that environmental art knows no borders.
