Clinton, Iowa – [02/03/2025] – The Sawmill Museum is thrilled to announce that internationally
acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo, known for his larger-than-life wooden trolls made from
recycled materials, will be visiting Clinton, Iowa during the second weekend of February.
Dambo is visiting in preparation for his monumental installation of multiple wooden trolls in
Clinton, Iowa, in 2026. This project marks a transformative moment for Clinton, combining art,
history, and natural beauty to celebrate the region’s vibrant future while honoring its industrial
past.
Thomas Dambo has captivated audiences worldwide with his whimsical troll sculptures, each
designed to reflect and enhance the unique character of its environment. The installatio
planned for Clinton will be no exception, as it is set to take place along the Mississippi River on
the Sawmill Museum’s campus in the heart of the Lyons District. This will be Dambo’s first Iow
installation and his first installation along the MIssissippi River
“This is an extraordinary opportunity for Clinton and The Sawmill,” said Ari Lewerenz, President
of The Sawmill Museum Board of Directors. “Our community is working hard to reimagine this
area as a hub for arts and culture. Having Thomas Dambo’s art here will not only elevate our
vision but also create a lasting legacy for residents and visitors to enjoy. This will further
Clinton’s ability to attract the millions of people visiting the Mississippi River every year while
providing locals a place for pictures and enjoyment.”
During his Iowa visit that will take place on February 9 and 10, Dambo will explore Clinton’s
scenic riverfront, its industrial heritage, and the discard and recycling facilities to shape a
design that reflects the soul of this unique community by the Mississippi. The installation wil
align with the Sawmill Museum’s broader “Envisioning the Future” initiative to transform its
grounds into a cultural destination that connects history, art, and the natural world.
The troll installation is expected to be completed in early Summer of 2026, with unveiling
planned to coincide with peak tourism season. This installation, plus the Paint it Back project,
Clinton’s very own art festival that celebrates mural art and street culture, will be the catalysts
for transforming the Lyons District into a colorful, creative haven. The combined projects aim to
position Clinton, Iowa, as a premier cultural district in the region, appealing to locals and
tourists alike.
“This is more than art; it’s about community,” added Ari. “This project reflects the creativity
collaboration, and determination that I think define Clinton as a community. We are so excite
to bring Thomas Dambo’s talent to our town and showcase what makes Clinton, Iowa, truly
special.”
Being Iowa’s and the Mississippi River’s first Dambo installation will help highlight all the
amazing public art projects that are blossoming and why the state of Iowa has named Clinton a
Cultural Accelerator and the museum a Cultural Leader.”
The Sawmill Museum invites everyone to join in this journey of transformation and creativity.
Community members, local businesses, and visitors are encouraged to stay tuned for updates
and get involved as this exciting project unfolds.
Follow The Sawmill Museum for updates
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawmill_museum
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSawmillMuseum
You can be supporter of putting Clinton, Iowa, on the Trollmap (www.trollmap.com) by making
a donation to the project’s GoFundMe (https://www.gofundme.com/f/put-clinton-iowa-on-thedambo-troll-map).
For more information, please contact Ari Lewerenz at alewerenz@gocfb.bank or (563)
357-7278.
