Something extraordinary is coming to Asheville this winter! The North Carolina Arboretum and Explore Asheville are elated to announce the arrival of Trolls: A Field Study. Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind.

Produced by Imagine in collaboration with Danish artist Thomas Dambo, these friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina. Standing seven to nine feet tall and lovingly described by the artist as “Baby Trolls”, the creatures are crafted from materials like fallen branches, wooden pallets and twigs.

Through their observations, the trolls reveal a fresh perspective on what makes us human, sparking curiosity and laughter in visitors of all ages.

Troll sightings are also anticipated at this year’s Winter Lights, as six of Dambo’s Trolls will be experiencing the show for themselves. Meet them in the gardens at Winter Lights! Find the entire cast of Dambo’s Trolls: A Field Study during the day, with six trolls in the gardens and six more along the trails! Included with the regular daytime parking fee, or purchase a combo ticket and save! The Arboretum is excited to reveal even more about visitors soon!