Jump to:
Ticket Information | Exhibit Map | About Thomas Dambo | Trolls-themed classes
Prepare for the Trolls’ arrival on October 1!
If you feel the Earth shaking or hear rumbling near South Coast Botanic Garden, don’t worry – it’s just the trolls arriving. Thomas Dambo TROLLS: Save the Humans will have its West Coast premiere at the Garden on October 1 featuring the acclaimed artist’s signature folklore-inspired troll sculptures built from reclaimed materials. These six larger-than-life trolls are meeting here in our 87 acres to try to help us humans out. You see, hundreds of trolls came together at “Trolliefolkyfest” to discuss their favorite topic – us humans. While they know we mean well, we keep failing them by making questionable choices, like cutting down forests, emptying rivers, and putting humans – and them – in danger. While most of the trolls think we are past saving, these SIX think they can help us. And they are headed here…
Please note, these sculptures are works of art, so please resist the urge to touch them and inform your little ones of the no-touch policy. Thank you!
A Look at the Trolls…
Sofus Lotus
Courtesy Atlanta Botanical Garden
Ibbi Pip
Courtesy Atlanta Botanical Garden
Basse Buller
Courtesy Atlanta Botanical Garden
About the Artist
Thomas Dambo is considered the world’s leading recycle artist, having been taught from a young age the value of recycling, sustainability and unlimited imagination. Before embarking on the path of building larger-than-life sculptures, Thomas led a multifaceted life that allowed him to express his creativity via music, street art and scenic design. After graduating from the Kolding Design School with a master’s degree in interactive design, Thomas began his current journey of using recycled materials to create colorful art installations, building the foundation for his artwork today.
Thomas’ high level of creativity, design acumen and versatility drive the creation of highly interactive experiences, allowing users to express their individuality on a large scale. This philosophy can be found in works such as his Happy Alphabet, and Happy Wall and Future Forest. From vibrant gardens made of recycled plastics to a functioning Christmas market made from commercial refuse, Thomas creates experiences that are immersive, interactive, and awe-inspiring.
Today, Thomas is known internationally for his larger-than-life Troll sculptures made from recycled wood. With 87 sculptures all over the world, these Trolls have begun to have a life of their own. Popping up in Denmark, the USA, France, Germany, China, South Korea, Chile, and many more on the way, the message of sustainability and unlimited imagination have reached millions through in-person visits, shared photos, and international media coverage. Thomas’ vision is to create art that inspires people to go explore, have adventures in nature, and demonstrates that trash can be turned into something beautiful.
Ticket Information
Please note: Thomas Dambo TROLLS: Save the Humans is free with General Garden Admission tickets. Trolls-themed classes are a separate fee. To see pricing for those, please click here.
Non-Member Garden Admission Tickets
Adults (Ages 18+) $15/person
Children (Ages 5-12) $5/person
Children (Ages 4 and under) FREE
Students and Seniors (62+) $11/person
Member Tickets
Free!
Note: Please remember to sign in to get your Member discount.
Trolls-themed Classes
The trolls are here to save us by teaching us how to be one with nature. The classes below have been inspired by their teachings and can be enjoyed during the run of the exhibit. Please note, classes are an additional fee and require advance registration.
That’s SO Cal: Introduction to Growing our Native Plants (Inspired by Rosa Sunfinger, the Botanical Troll)
10 – 11 a.m., Saturday, October 7
We are lucky to live in Southern California where we have so many plant species that don’t live anywhere else on Earth. As the region continues to lose valuable habitat through urbanization, we can help a little by creating safe spaces for wildlife in our own gardens. This class will teach you about our unique climate, our native plant species, and tips on how to select and cultivate native plants.
Price: $27 for Members, $30 for non-members
From Trash to Treasure: Sustainable Jewelry Making (Inspired by Kamma Can, the Trash Troll)
10 – 11:30 a.m. Saturday October 14
2 – 3:30 p.m. Saturday, October 14
2 – 3:30 p.m. Saturday, November 18
Join us for a unique and inspiring workshop that combines art and sustainability. In this class, we will explore the art of jewelry making using discarded materials and embrace the concept of “upcycling.” Inspired by the Troll sculpture named Kamma Can, who sees the beauty and potential in trash, we will learn how to transform recycled paper into colorful beads. No prior jewelry making experience is necessary. Discover the joy of repurposing materials, unleash your creativity, and leave with a bracelet or necklace that tells a story of environmental consciousness and artistic expression.
Price: $36 for Members, $40 for non-members
Mega Meditation Class, Whispers of Nature (Inspired by Sofus Lotus, the Listening Troll)
10 a.m. – 11 a.m., Sunday, October 22
Step into the realm of oneness and tranquility as you join a massive gathering for an extraordinary guided meditation experience. This meditation is inspired by Sofus Lotus, our Listening Troll, who embodies the art of attentive observation and mindful awareness. Using state of the art wireless headphones, the group will embark on a journey with Sofus to explore the profound importance of listening to nature through our senses and become attuned to the whispers and soft nudges of our intuition. Bring your own mat.
Price: $27 for Members, $30 for non-members
Crafting Connections: Creating Bird Feeders Workshop (Inspired by Ibbi Pip, the Birdhouse Troll)
10 – 11:30 a.m., Saturday, October 28
2 – 3:30 p.m., Saturday, October 28
Join us for a delightful workshop where we will create bird feeders that will attract birds to your yard at home. Inspired by the troll sculpture named Ibbi Pip, a kind-hearted advocate for animals and nature, this class combines crafting with a mission to foster a deeper connection between humans and their natural surroundings. Coat your paper-mache bird feeder with peanut butter and choose from an array of seeds to create your own intricate designs. Let your creativity flow as you learn about the importance of preserving habitats for birds and the vital role they play in maintaining ecological balance. All ages are welcome! A peanut butter alternative will be provided to those that indicate allergies when purchasing a ticket.
Price: $34.20 for Members, $38 for non-members
Blooms & Beauty: Crafting Fresh Flower Crowns (Inspired by Rosa Sunfinger, the Botanical Troll)
2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Friday, November 10
Join us for a hands-on workshop where we will create exquisite flower crowns using fresh plant material. Set amidst the colorful surroundings of the Garden, this class offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while learning the art of flower crown making. This workshop is inspired by Rosa Sunfinger, our Botanical Troll, who expresses herself through plants and flowers and brings back joy through the beauty of nature. Guided by skilled instructors, you will learn the techniques of selecting, preparing, and arranging fresh materials to craft your own stunning flower crown. As you weave together petals, leaves, and delicate blooms, you will discover the therapeutic qualities of working with nature’s vibrant palette and engage in conversations about the significance of flowers in various cultures and the symbolism associated with different blooms.
Price: $43.20 for Members, $48 for non-members
Introduction to Nature Journaling (Inspired by Ronja Redeye, the Speaker Troll)
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Saturday, November 11
Join us in the Garden for a therapeutic nature journaling session that will allow you to reflect on your relationship with the natural world. This activity is inspired by Ronja Redeye, the Speaker Troll, who often reflects on how to inspire humans to take better care of the environment. Learn about the benefits of journaling and explore what the Trolls in the Garden might be trying to tell us. Journals will be provided.
Price: $25.20 for Members, $28 for non-members