A Giant Troll Renaissance

The Pacific Northwest is experiencing a bit of a renaissance with the arrival of several new giant trolls. The tradition started in 1990 with the creation of the Fremont Troll. Four local artists created the sculpture as part of a competition sponsored by the Fremont Arts Council. The trolls are made entirely of recycled material to remind us of our connection to the environment. Trolls are also known for protecting nature. In the Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King, each troll is different and intended to highlight the cultural heritage between local indigenous people and Scandinavian culture in some form. The artist, Thomas Dambo of Denmark, has made over 100 such trolls across the world. Although a far cry from the trolls of folklore and fantasy, I am so glad these trolls arrived in my corner of the world. See more at nwtrolls.org and stay tuned for updates as I visit the last two trolls in Issaquah and Vashon.