Giant Trolls Coming Out To Play At Morton Arboretum

LISLE, IL — If you've visited The Morton Arboretum this spring, you've probably noticed artists crafting massive beings from different recycled materials throughout the grounds. That's because on June 22, a new, first large-scale U.S. exhibition by Danish artist Thomas Dambo and crews will debut the giant 15-to-20-feet-tall creatures of Troll Hunt, according to the Arboretum, which also says you can hear more about the exhibit on Thursday, June 14 during an event (see below) with Dambo.

The Morton Arboretum website says "Troll Hunt will take visitors on a journey to find the larger-than-life guardians of the forest living in the Arboretum’s woods." In addition, visitors will learn where they came from and more information as they look for the trolls, "who are in turn trying to make sense of the human world that surrounds them, hunting us with nets and other contraptions to protect the forest from human impact."

The Arboretum says Dambo, woodworking crews and volunteers put to use hundreds of pieces of reclaimed wood–battered boards, fallen trees and branches, the remains of pallets and packing crates to create the trolls that will be set up in plain sight, while others will be hidden off paths among the trees.

Stop by the Arboretum’s Visitor Center for the daily schedule.

Troll Hunt Highlights from The Morton Arboretum:

"Built to be both mischievous and thought-provoking, the trolls of Troll Hunt invite visitors to interact with them, while elements of the exhibition encourage visitors to consider their personal responsibility as stewards of our environment." For example, the Arboretum says a troll “hideout” tucked away in a wooded glen will give troll seekers a glimpse into the way these creatures live.

Enjoy these Troll Hunt-themed Programs:

• An Evening with the Artist: Thomas Dambo: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, June 14 - Hear from Thomas Dambo, the artist behind Troll Hunt, describe his fascinating career creating whimsical and thought-provoking pieces using reclaimed materials Discover the inspirations behind the Troll Hunt exhibition and the messages the artist conveys through his sculptures.
• Adult Coloring Night: Troll Hunt edition: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday, July 12 - Enjoy an evening of coloring exclusive Troll Hunt-themed pages that celebrate the larger-than-life guardians of the Arboretum’s forest. The evening will include a cash bar and snacks.

Visit The Morton Arboretum's website for more details as Troll Hunt is expected to be on the grounds beyond 2018.

Image via Morton Arboretum release