Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Art topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Select Board hears proposal for 30-foot troll sculpture; raises access and lease concerns
Summary
A volunteer group proposed a 30-foot troll sculpture by Danish artist Thomas Dambo for town property; the board discussed potential locations, parking and lease terms and asked for written proposals and further review before any commitment.
The Wolfeboro Troll Keepers presented a proposal July 1 to install a 30-foot troll sculpture by Danish artist Thomas Dambo on town property, arguing the installation would boost tourism and involve volunteer support without town funding.
Peg Mongiello, representing the group, described the sculptures as made from reclaimed wood and said the artist typically retains ownership and leases installations to host communities. "Why troll in Wolfeboro? Outdoors/natural beauty/recreation/environment—no town funding will be needed," Mongiello said during a slide presentation.
Board members asked questions about potential locations, noting the Water Treatment facility on Filter Bed Road had been scouted but may require approvals from Woodard & Curran and possible parking/road upgrades. Catherine Dragonfly clarified that the artist owns the work and that a lease agreement could be needed, with maintenance by the artist.
Select Board members said any terms must be in writing and that other locations should be considered; the board did not take action at the meeting and requested written terms and further review, including possible coordination with DPW and the consulting firm Woodard & Curran.
Why it matters: A large outdoor installation could draw visitors and require town resources for access, parking and safety; the board signaled interest but emphasized process, site suitability and formal agreements prior to any installation.
