Danish sculptor Thomas Dambo has installed his first permanent troll sculpture in New York State. The artwork now stands in Tupper Lake, a small Adirondack mill town. It marks a shift from his usual temporary installations around the world.
Dambo built his reputation using recycled materials. He transforms scrap wood, discarded pallets, and industrial waste into massive folkloric figures. His creations have appeared in forests, parks, and city spaces across multiple continents.
The Tupper Lake troll is made almost entirely from local recycled wood. Dambo’s team sourced materials from nearby businesses and demolition sites. The sculpture blends into the surrounding forest while standing several stories tall.
Town officials hope the installation will draw consistent tourism. Tupper Lake has struggled economically since its lumber mills declined. Local leaders see public art as a tool for revitalization.
The Wild Center, a nature museum in Tupper Lake, commissioned the project. Museum staff approached Dambo several years ago with the idea. They wanted a permanent attraction that reflected the region’s logging history.
Dambo spent weeks in the area before construction began. He met with residents and studied the town’s past. The final design incorporates subtle references to local wildlife and industry.
The troll has already attracted visitors from nearby states. Hotels and restaurants report a modest rise in weekend traffic. Officials caution that long-term economic effects remain uncertain.
