Rhode Island’s Trolls: A global eco-tourism attraction

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

The South County Tourism Council in Rhode Island is embarking on a unique initiative to enhance tourism revenue by integrating trolls into their attractions. This spring, Charlestown’s Ninigret Park is set to become home to two colossal trolls created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, as announced by Louise Bishop, the CEO of the South County Tourism Council. Bishop envisions this as the beginning of a statewide troll trail that aims to attract visitors nationally and potentially internationally.

Thomas Dambo, known for his commitment to environmental conservation through art, crafts his pieces using recycled and reclaimed materials. His public artworks are displayed globally, spanning over 20 countries across five continents. With 125 trolls already to his name, including 44 in the United States, Dambo aspires to construct 1,000 trolls worldwide, demonstrating that trash can be transformed into captivating artwork.

The installation of Dambo’s trolls in South County aligns with the region’s environmental ethos and its natural beauty, offering visitors a new attraction that encourages outdoor activity and supports the local economy. Bishop highlights the economic potential of this project, pointing to the success of Dambo’s trolls in the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, which significantly increased visitor numbers.

The assembly of the trolls in Rhode Island will be a community-driven effort, with Dambo enlisting local volunteers to aid in the construction. This collaborative approach fosters community engagement and involvement in the creation of the art. The local government and community members have expressed their support and enthusiasm for the project, recognizing its potential to boost local business and tourism.

Termed ‘troll tourism,’ this concept has already proven successful in Maine, suggesting that Rhode Island’s troll trail could similarly attract a wide audience. The project, which involves a significant financial investment, has received partial funding through the American Rescue Plan Act, with the South County Tourism Council seeking additional grants and corporate sponsorship to bring the troll trail to fruition.

This innovative approach to tourism, blending art, environmental consciousness, and community involvement, holds promise for significantly impacting the global travel and tourism industry by offering a unique cultural attraction that draws visitors from around the world.

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