Thomas Dambo Save The Humans Logo White

TROLLS  are coming soon to Filoli!

Opens June 7, 2025

TROLLS: Save the Humans opens this summer at Filoli. The special exhibition features six folklore-inspired activist Trolls that have come to teach humans how to rediscover nature and inspire humans to be good stewards of the earth.

This all-new touring exhibition featuring Thomas Dambo’s signature folklore-inspired Troll sculptures are built from reclaimed materials and will delight visitors of all ages. The outdoor exhibition will fuse fairytales, whimsy, and incredible art installations to inspire visitors to explore themes such as recycling and reusing trash, the importance of plants and gardens, art and more.

These giant creatures will be located within Filoli's Natural Lands for guests to discover on their adventures through the property.  

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Meet the Trolls!

Thomas Portrait

About Thomas Dambo

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. Previously, Thomas has 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 drives the creation of highly interactive experiences, allowing users to express their own individuality on a large scale. From 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.

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.

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Transforming Trash

Filoli StrokeLine

June 22, July 9, August 10, & September 10, 2025
11am–2pm

Join us for hands-on, drop-in art experiences inspired by Trolls: Save the Humans! Like the creative trolls, we’ll transform recycled materials into beautiful art. Craft bold symbols like Basse Buller, build with “eternity materials” like Kamma Can, or design colorful birdhouses like Ibbi Pip. These activities encourage reimagining discarded things. Celebrate nature through art—no registration needed, just drop in and get inspired!

Tickets will be released soon! Subscribe to our e-newsletter above and be the first to be notified!

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Big Bay Laurel at left above hikers on the estate trail, families, all ages.

Family Nature Weekend

Filoli StrokeLine

July 12 & 13, 2025
Saturday & Sunday | 10am–5pm

Step into a world of outdoor adventure, creativity, and sustainability at Filoli’s Family Nature Weekend! Wander through the Garden and natural lands, where you’ll find family-friendly craft stations, engaging entertainment, and exciting activities that highlight the beauty of nature and the importance of sustainability. From interactive storytelling to eco-friendly art projects, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The weekend is inspired by the message of TROLLS: Save the Humans - that caring for nature means caring for each other and the wild places around us hold the power to bring us together.

TROLLS: Save the Humans is generously sponsored by:

Basse Buller

Sponsored by:

Filoli's Board of Directors

Ibbi Pip

Sponsored by:

The Wollenberg Family

Ronja Redeye

Sponsored by:

The San Francisco Peninsula

Sofus Lotus

Sponsored by:

Dennis and Julie Carlson and Family