Apr. 27, 2026 8:30p
(WGTD)---An artist with an international following has been hired to produce what's expected to become an eye-catching attraction in Mt. Pleasant.
Thomas Dambo creates giant "troll" sculptures out of recycled materials.
Dambo's first Wisconsin sculpture is Mama Rosa in the City of Wauwatosa. According to a news release from Mt. Pleasant, the sculpture within a month of its installation in May of last year drew over 62,000 visitors and had a $4 million economic impact.
"Thomas' trolls are all over the world," Mt. Pleasant tourism manager Matt Prochaska said at Monday night's village board meeting. "This is in essence putting Mt. Pleasant on the international stage," he said.
According to the release, Dambo's artwork encourages people to explore and connect with nature, and to recycle products instead of throwing them away.
An email has been established--TrollHelpers@mtpleasantwi.gov--for those interested in donating materials or volunteering to help build the sculpture.
The work is expected to take place next year in a village park or public place that has yet to be chosen.
Funds to pay Dambo and his team are coming from the village's hotel/motel room tax.
-0-