In Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, artist Thomas Dambo’s latest project, Alexa’s Elixir, invites the public on an enchanting fairy tale scavenger hunt through the forest. This imaginative exhibition, created with the help of over 300 volunteers, features five of Dambo’s signature troll sculptures, three magical portals, 800 birdhouses, and a special book containing a recipe and map for the elusive Golden Rabbit. Based on a folktale by Dambo, the project encourages participants to help a troll named Alexa brew an elixir to free humans from a curse cast by the evil Golden Rabbit. Along the way, visitors must collect five unique ingredients, engaging directly with the whimsical artwork while immersing themselves in a narrative that blends art, nature, and adventure.
As visitors embark on this magical quest, they are reminded of the importance of environmental stewardship. Dambo’s sculptures, meticulously crafted from recycled materials, highlight the beauty and potential of upcycled art while promoting sustainability. The trolls, scattered throughout the forest and mapped out on Dambo’s Troll Map, beckon participants to explore and reconnect with the natural world. The unmarked location of the Golden Rabbit adds an element of mystery and excitement, ensuring that each step in the hunt is filled with wonder and discovery. Through Alexa’s Elixir, Dambo not only brings his artistic vision to life but also inspires a collective appreciation for nature and the joy of creative storytelling.
