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Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Sets Up a Whimsical Trail Full of Trolls in Nashville

by Rich and Laura Lynch

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is an accredited historical park located in Nashville, Tennessee that was the former home of Mabel and Leslie Cheek. In addition to their mansion which is now a museum Cheekwood's extensive grounds feature beautiful botanical gardens, expansive vistas, sculptures and walking paths. It is a peaceful and pretty place to spend the day but wait there is even more to explore at this estate which regularly hosts art exhibits, live music and themed events.


This troll was a fine advocate for the art of recycling.

Jazz Under the Stars and an art exhibit gave us two extra good reasons to visit Cheekwood on Friday, July 19, 2024. During the day we went in search of Thomas Dambo's Trolls. Dambo who lives and works in Denmark is a well-respected recycling artist who promotes sustainability. His Trolls which now number over 100 are made from recycled wood and are here to show us (small people) how to reconnect with nature and inspire us to be good stewards of the earth.

TROLLS: Save the Humans will be at Cheekwood through September 01, 2024. Nestled among the natural beauty of the park are six young yet rather large trolls. They have observed how disconnected the small people are to nature and how many of our ways are destructive to the planet. So, the trolls are in Middle Tennessee ready to encourage folks to appreciate their surroundings while taking better care of our shared environment.


TROLLS: Save the Humans runs through September 1, 2004.

Each troll has a unique purpose. Ronja Redeye proclaims the power of words. Ibbi Pip is surrounded by colorful birdhouses reminding folks to value wildlife while Sofus Lotus has an ear to the ground to hear and point out when things are off. Basse Buller believes that anything (especially good) is possible while Rosa Sunfinger cares for plants and lastly Kamma Can demonstrates the potential of often discarded items being transformed into something beautiful reflecting Dambo's commitment to using recycled materials for art and more.

TROLLS: Save the Humans is one of many temporary exhibitions that Cheekwood has showcased. In addition to fine art and natural beauty, Checkwood has expanded their outdoor miniature yet mighty train tracks to enchant kids of all ages with a ton of attention to details. They have also updated some trails to meet ADA Standards for Accessible Design allowing more people to enjoy the fantastic fauna and the Ann & Monroe Carell Jr. Family Sculpture Trail featuring a diverse lineup of permanent fixtures. Please visit Cheekwood's website for more information on art, concerts, special events, the gardens and more.


This troll is keeping his ear to the ground.

Related Links: For more information on CHEEKWOOD ESTATE & GARDENS and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links - Cheekwood Estate & Gardens | Thomas Dambo | The Dirty Dozen Brass Band Brought the Sound of New Orleans to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens in Nashville


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