Danish Artist Thomas Dambo Completes RI Troll Trail: Where It's Headed

The Quest for Troll Hair: A Unique Community Effort

North Kingstown is currently on the lookout for long, thick strands of hair to help build a giant troll that will soon make its home in Ryan Park. This isn’t an advertisement for a hair replacement clinic, but rather a call for community involvement in an artistic and environmental project. The trolls, created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, are part of a larger initiative to bring public art and conservation awareness to Rhode Island.

The ideal "hair" for the troll should be between 2 to 5 inches in diameter and 3½ to 7 feet long. These branches need to be fresh and not rotten, making it an opportunity for locals to contribute by collecting them from their own brush piles or walking through Ryan Park. The town has made this request available on its website, encouraging residents to get involved in the creation process.

Thomas Dambo, a renowned recycle artist, has constructed his giant trolls in over 20 countries, emphasizing the importance of protecting nature and its inhabitants. His work often features towering structures that serve as both art and a message about sustainability. In Rhode Island, his trolls are set to become part of a trail that began last year in Charlestown's Ninigret Park.

The project includes three new trolls in North Kingstown, East Providence, and Richmond. Each troll will tell a unique story and provide clues that lead visitors to solve a puzzle involving a hidden "Thunder Stone." This interactive element adds an engaging layer to the experience, inviting people to explore and discover the art in a fun and educational way.

Dambo typically constructs the troll heads at his studio in Denmark before shipping them to the installation site. Local volunteers play a crucial role in completing the projects, and the demand for volunteer spots is high. For instance, the East Providence troll project started on August 7, and the sign-up sheet was quickly filled, demonstrating the community's enthusiasm for the initiative.

In North Kingstown, construction will begin on August 14, with the town offering a sign-up sheet for volunteers. The volunteer opportunities are more than just a chance to help build the troll; they are a way to foster connections, pride, and unity among participants. According to the sign-up sheet, these experiences teach valuable skills and promote environmental awareness.

The South County Tourism Council has also posted a sign-up sheet for those interested in volunteering for the Richmond troll, which will start on August 13. While grants from the state Department of Commerce cover most of the costs, the town is still seeking donations and sponsors to ensure the project does not impact the recreation department’s budget.

Chelsey Dumas-Gibbs, director of recreation in North Kingstown, encourages local businesses and residents to get creative and help build anticipation for the troll’s unveiling. She believes that the influx of visitors following the ribbon-cutting ceremony presents a unique opportunity for the community to showcase itself.

With retail, restaurants, and businesses joining in on the troll-themed excitement, there is a great potential for community engagement. The project not only brings public art to the area but also promotes recycling and conservation efforts. As the troll trail continues to grow, it promises to be a source of inspiration and connection for residents and visitors alike.