A troll is defined as an imaginary, either very large or very small, creature in traditional Scandinavian stories that has magical powers and lives in mountains or caves. Danish culture has a long history in the Puget Sound, so showcasing artwork depicting various trolls was a natural fit for several locations around the Pacific Northwest, including Bainbridge Island.
Installed in the summer of 2023, Pia the Peacemaker, created by Copenhagen-based artist Thomas Dambo, is an 18-foot-tall troll made from recycled wood that now resides at the island’s Sakai Park. Pia is part of a six-display installation with placements throughout the Pacific Northwest.
With a mission to promote Danish culture throughout the Northwest, Scan Design Foundation spearheaded and funded much of the overall project with the Bainbridge Island Parks install being guided by Park District Commissioner Dawn Janow. “As amazing as our parks are, I recognized there wasn’t a lot of art and I wanted to bring more engaging things for our visitors,” said Janow.
Janow, a Park Commissioner since 2019, went on to say, “Pia is quite joyful, and art introduces the park to people in a way they have never seen it before while showcasing the artist’s message of respecting the environment and encouraging people to be mindful of the trash you throw away.”
The project was begun in the fall of 2022 and completed in less than a year through the wonderful support of the community. In addition to Thomas Dambo’s talented team, the sculpture took shape with the help of the Park Service’s crew, Scout Troop 1496, Cub Scout Pack 4496, and numerous dedicated volunteers spanning seven weeks.
Throughout this construction process, the Scout Troop and Scout Pack transformed into the “Troll Patrol,” responsibly managing the site and tools during nighttime. From disassembling wooden pallets, cutting wood pieces, screwing and hammering parts, clearing brush, and making meals for the crew, the Bainbridge Island community played a vital role.
Bainbridge Island Troll
biparks.org/bainbridge-troll
BY LYNN CASTLE