What to Know
- "Thomas Dambo's Trolls: Save the Humans," a collection of six large-scale trolls made from reclaimed materials
- South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes Peninsula
- Oct. 1, 2023 through Jan. 24, 2024; included with general garden admission
Like so many legendary figures from folklore, the troll has things to do, missions to accomplish, other people — often other trolls — to see, and important tasks to complete.
That means you may not come across one of these colossal characters by happenstance, even if you spend a good deal of time roaming the lush forests of Norway.
But you are guaranteed to encounter six gargantuan visitors if you call upon "Thomas Dambo's Trolls: Save the Humans," set to begin its West Coast premiere at South Coast Botanic Garden on Oct. 1.
Get top local stories in Southern California delivered to you every morning. >Sign up for NBC LA's News Headlines newsletter.
The outdoor artworks, all made from reclaimed materials, take their "Save the Humans" mission to happy heart: The artist hopes to "... inspire people to explore and create new adventures in nature while demonstrating that trash can be turned into something beautiful and unique," a purpose that aligns with the Palos Verdes Peninsula garden's unique location.
That location happens to be atop a sanitary landfill, making South Coast Botanic Garden "one of the first botanic gardens" to ever be situated in such a spot.
The trolls all boast names and personalities — Ibbi Pip is fond of erecting birdhouses — and a shared goal: aiding humans as they "learn how to live in harmony with the planet."
If you've ever met another Thomas Dambo-created Troll while traveling — there are dozens dotting the globe, from Denmark to Chile — you'll know that beholding one of these behemoths, one that possesses a gentle disposition yet urgent purpose, is something to remember.
And be inspired by. "Thomas Dambo's Trolls: Save the Humans" will be on view from Oct. 1 through Jan. 24, 2024.
Good to know? No climbing or touching is permitted, but getting close to these whimsical works for a deeper view is just fine.
For ticket information — the exhibit is included with general garden admission — stomp by the South Coast Botanic Garden site now.
