Imagine Exhibitions has announced a new partnership with Denmark-based recycle artist, Thomas Dambo. The partnership will include the development of an all-new touring exhibition featuring Dambo’s signature troll sculptures built from reclaimed materials.

“I’m constantly working with – so to speak – stretching the materials as far as possible, elevating the life and value of recycled materials through art,” says Dambo. “Doing a traveling exhibition together with Imagine Exhibitions makes so much sense. It is a brilliant way to spread the message about recycling further and to have shorter exhibitions without turning the sculptures into trash again. Together, I’m sure we’ll bring a lot of good energy to the world – I’m looking forward to this adventure!”

The outdoor exhibition will build upon the tales surrounding the more than 75 giant trolls (and counting) that Dambo has already created, while also telling an original story in and of itself, fusing fairytales, whimsy and art installations to inspire visitors to explore the importance of nature, climate change and other environmental issues.

In the Spring of 2018, Dambo unveiled a temporary exhibition of six of his trolls at The Morton Arboretum just outside of Chicago, Ill. 1.26 million people visited the park in 2018 during the run of Troll Hunt, with the first month of the exhibition clocking the most visitors the arboretum had ever had in a 30-day period (164,000 visitors). However, after a more than two-year run, the exhibition closed in January 2021, despite a petition from visitors to “save the trolls.” Now, Imagine Exhibitions have brought the idea to a touring exhibition.

“Once I saw Thomas Dambo’s giant trolls, I was instantly inspired and delighted,” says Tom Zaller, president and chief executive officer, Imagine Exhibitions. “Then, when I learned more about his mission to use his materials, methods, sculptures and associated fairy tales to tell a story about conservation and climate change, I immediately knew that I wanted to work with him to develop a touring experience. Thomas’ vision aligns so well with the missions of zoos, arboretums and like-minded visitor attractions – the traveling trolls exhibition will be a wonderful opportunity to surprise, delight and inspire visitors around the world.”

The Imagine Exhibitions sales team is currently discussing the exhibition with potential host venues.