The Trolls are coming to Filoli in June
Six larger-than-life Trolls are coming to Filoli Historic House and Garden. Opening June 7, 2025, TROLLS: Save the Humans will bring six of Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s gigantic folklore-inspired sculptures to the Natural Lands of Filoli. Nestled among the redwoods, the outdoor exhibition will explore the intersection of folklore, poetry, sustainability, and the human relationship to the natural environment.
“I’m so happy my Trolls get to spend some time amongst the giant redwoods at Filoli,” says Thomas Dambo. “I spent a day hiking in the forest, and it is a magical place where I know my Trolls will feel at home.”
Like many of Thomas Dambo’s sculptures, each Troll has been created from reclaimed wood, highlighting the artist’s passion as a recycling art activist. The Trolls will be discoverable along a mile trail within Filoli’s Natural Lands, waiting for visitors to discover them along the less-visited areas of the beloved property. Guests will find them planting a garden at the trailhead, resting among the redwoods, and hanging birdhouses in the oak woodlands.
“At Filoli, our focus is to connect people to the magic of nature,” adds Kara Newport, President & CEO of Filoli. “These gentle giants invite everyone to explore and interact with nature. Thomas Dambo’s Trolls remind us that creativity and sustainability go hand in hand. It is a new opportunity for visitors, especially families, to find new adventures at Filoli.”
Trolls at Filoli marks the latest chapter in a worldwide sculpture fairytale. In this installation, six young activist trolls have noticed that humans are disconnected from nature and have started harming the planet. These young Trolls set out to help humans learn how to live harmoniously with the planet. This will be the Trolls first visit to the redwoods.
In addition to the sculptures themselves, there will be extensive programming for families and children centered around nature play, wellness, and performing arts. A Children’s Nature Playspace will also be installed that features willow huts, an oak tree tumble, musical play elements, and a children’s theatre.
Full of personality and activism, each Troll has a unique name and plays a distinctive role in the tribe, becoming role models for humans to learn from. There’s:
Ronja Redeye carries the gift of communication and knows how to speak words that humans understand.
Rosa Sunfinger is an introverted troll who cares for plants and other green creatures with her life-giving fingers.
Ibbi Pip is a handy, optimistic troll and a friend of all animals.
Basse Buller spreads his message in mud paint, using every available surface.
Kamma Can is a creator; where humans see trash, she sees potential.
Sofus Lotus is an introverted type who pays great attention to the little things.
The Trolls will be on display through November 10, 2025. Buy tickets online.
