Thomas Dambo, a Danish artist and recycling activist, has brought his latest creation to the California Nature Art Museum in Solvang. The troll, named Lulu Hyggelig, is constructed from recycled materials such as old wooden pallets, wine barrels, and unusable lumber. Dambo is known for his large-scale sculptures made from recycled materials.
He has created over 150 trolls worldwide, but Lulu Hyggelig is the first permanent troll in California and the first to reside indoors anywhere. The materials for the troll were donated by local residents and businesses, with twigs from around the Santa Ynez Valley used to form her hair. “I’m the garbage artist.
That’s what I preach, and that’s what I do,” Dambo said. He emphasizes the message of turning what is perceived as trash into something valuable. Stacey Otte-Demangate, the museum’s Executive Director, expressed excitement about hosting Dambo’s work.
“We are so excited to be working with an internationally renowned artist, and the fact that he’s Danish — and, of course, Solvang being the Danish capital of America — is magical for us,” she said. The troll is expected to remain at the museum for at least 10 years, with the potential to stay longer given its indoor location.
Danish artist’s first CA permanent troll
The project has been supported by local volunteers and numerous donations. The museum aims to reach a $300,000 funding goal, with donations over $250 acknowledged on a donor board. Following a members-only exhibition opening on Saturday, the troll will debut to the public on Sunday.
The museum, located at 1511-B Mission Drive, will have extended hours for the debut weekend. Admission is $5 for adults and free for those under age 17. Dambo’s trolls can be found in 17 countries around the world.
“I always hope that when people come and see my work, they will understand how many big and amazing things we can build from our trash,” he said. The troll in Solvang is made from old wine barrels, pallets, construction timber from the local landfill, and dunnage wood from the local hardware store. “All of that together has become this sculpture,” Dambo explained.
This whimsical and environmentally conscious addition to Solvang’s cultural landscape is not to be missed. The troll will be added to Dambo’s trail map, where people are encouraged to find his various sculptures around the world.