In a creative and meaningful science project, Montverde Academy’s fifth-grade students explored the art of conservation and protection by creating their trolls, inspired by Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s famous troll sculptures. Dambo is known for his larger-than-life trolls, built from recycled materials, which are strategically placed around the world to remind people of the importance of nature and conservation. These whimsical figures are often hidden in forests or other natural areas, serving as guardians of the environment.
Thomas Dambo began with a passion for upcycling and transforming trash into treasure. As a young artist, he made furniture and smaller sculptures from discarded materials. Over time, his creations grew in scale and purpose, culminating in his globally recognized troll sculptures, each with a message of environmental stewardship. His trolls are meant to protect forests, lakes, and other important natural habitats, raising awareness about the fragility of the earth and the importance of sustainability.
Inspired by Dambo’s vision, Mrs. Whiffen’s fifth-grade science class took on the challenge of creating their trolls to protect what they felt was most important in the world. Each student chose a cause they wanted to protect, researched it, and designed a troll symbolizing their cause. The students used recycled materials and found objects from around the MVA campus to craft their trolls, capturing the spirit of environmental consciousness and creativity.
One student who traveled to Haiti created a troll to protect the people living in unsafe situations after seeing firsthand the struggles many families face. Another student, originally from Cuba, designed a troll to protect the endangered Cuban dwarf frog, a species at risk due to habitat loss. Another troll was dedicated to the protection of time itself, with the student explaining that time seems to pass too quickly, and that their troll would serve as a guardian of the moments that matter most. “This project was particularly meaningful to me,” said Mrs. Whiffen, “to watch the students become so invested, research their respective causes, and focus of the things that are important to protect in this world has been eye-opening and truly delightful!”
This hands-on project allowed students to connect their scientific learning to personal experiences and concerns. By integrating research, art, and environmental awareness, the students learned how individuals can make a difference in protecting the world around them. Like Thomas Dambo’s trolls, the students’ creations not only brought awareness to important causes but also highlighted the value of using recycled materials to make something beautiful and impactful.
The fifth-grade science project is a perfect example of how education can inspire action and responsibility toward protecting our planet and the people and creatures who inhabit it. Just like Thomas Dambo’s trolls, these young students’ creations are symbols of hope, reminding us that we all have the power to protect what matters most.
