About Barefoot Frida
by Thomas Dambo
The Troll with a Trail to Explore
Origin & Artist
Barefoot Frida is one of the Thomas Dambo trolls from the widely celebrated “Trolls in DL” public art series, which made its debut in Detroit Lakes in summer 2024. These installations are crafted from recycled and natural materials in Dambo’s signature style.
Home at Ortenstone Gardens
Frida is the only of the six Dambo Trolls in DL to make a permanent home at Ortenstone Gardens & Sculpture Park. She’s now considered a resident of the park and warmly welcomes visitors. ▹ Meet Barefoot Frida’s other Trolls in DL friends.
Character & Interaction
Frida is portrayed as an “outdoorsy type,” with a particular fondness for creating “small yet fun challenges” for her nature-loving friends. Her whimsical concept centers on encouraging people—especially kids—to walk barefoot in nature, to truly feel the environment beneath their feet. It’s said that “a mile walked in bare feet was her ingredient to Alexa’s Elixir”.
Location & Visiting Info
Located at the corner of Randolph Road and Highway 54 in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, Frida rests on trails within Ortenstone Gardens. To reach her, visitors typically embark on a moderate to challenging hike of approximately 1/3 mile through mildly inclined terrain. The trail accommodates all-terrain walking devices, but note that wheelchair access is not recommended.
Why Barefoot Frida Matters
Barefoot Frida brings a playful, tactile connection to the natural world—inviting visitors both young and old to shed their shoes and literally feel the earth, fostering a sense of wonder and simplicity. Her presence also marks the beginning of a growing collection of public art at Ortenstone, bridging community engagement with creative storytelling.
Photo Gallery
About the Artist
Thomas Dambo
Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo uses reclaimed wood and scraps from landfills to create giant statue-like trolls – unique characters, each with a story. He has installed trolls in 17 countries worldwide.
