Filoli Historic House & World Class Garden is already filled with adventure and instills a message to appreciate the natural world, but this summer there’s an extra level of whimsical wonder thanks to trolls visiting to share their lessons on how to save the planet.
As visitors turn the bends on the 1-mile loop that runs along the California Trail on Filoli grounds, they come upon six towering troll sculptures, handcrafted entirely from repurposed materials by Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo.
The outdoor exhibition, entitled “TROLLS: Save the Humans,” is on display all summer long and into the fall, inviting Filoli guests to experience the gigantic folklore-inspired wooden sculptures.
“At Filoli, our focus is to connect people to the magic of nature,” Filoli CEO Kara Newport said. “These gentle giants invite everyone to explore and interact with nature.”
Dambo has trolls all around the world as part of a “sculpture fairy tale,” but the six that found their way to the historic Woodside property have come to remind San Mateo County residents and guests to rediscover nature and be inspired to be stewards of the planet.
The playful sculptures are intrusive both in their physical magnitude and weighty message that humans are disconnected from nature and harming their home. Each troll has their own identity, personality and message on how to reconnect for anyone who will listen.
At Filoli, the six trolls are young activists who have set out to help humans learn how to live harmoniously with the planet.
Ronja Redeye greets visitors as they enter the historic grounds, using her skill to communicate to humans with a mighty voice. After heading toward the loop trail, guests will come across Sofus Lotus, who was the first to notice something was wrong in the world, and is known for his incredible ability to hear everything.
Ibbi Pip is found among the trees and creatures, and her presence is first made clear as visitors come across hundreds of colorful birdhouses painting the forest. Basse Buller spreads his message with mud paint, using natural resources to create and find calm, and is known as the chaotic one of the group.
Where humans may see trash, Kamma Can sees creative potential, reminding humans to find the beauty and opportunity in everything, and not be so quick to throw things away. Rosa Sunfinger looks over a succulent garden that has taken over a broken-down car, showcasing how she brings life back to things humans have abandoned.
“I’m so happy my Trolls get to spend some time amongst the giant redwoods at Filoli,” Dambo said in a press release. “I spent a day hiking in the forest, and it is a magical place where I know my Trolls will feel at home.
The mission of the trolls are also reflected in other aspects of the Filoli experience. Monthly Wellness Wednesdays, Family Nature Weekend on July 12 and July 13, and monthly Transforming Trash activities all embrace the promotion of sustainability and connecting with nature.
After uncovering the magical trolls, guests to Filoli can also tune in to various summer programs and events.
Sunset hikes and Summer Nights programming have returned on Wednesdays and Thursdays until Sept. 18. Summer Flora Parties will be held July 9, July 10 and July 11. The Children’s Redwood Theater is slated for July 20 and Aug. 17 — which is right next to where Basse Buller sits.
In August, Summer Stage concerts will be held on Aug. 17, Aug. 18, Aug, 19, Aug. 24, Aug, 25 and Aug. 26.
The trolls exhibition will be on display until Nov. 10. Visit filoli.org/trolls for information about the display and the artist.
Filoli is open for regular admission every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. general admission cost $38 and tickets can be purchased online at filoli.org ahead of time.
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