Danish artist Thomas Dambo got the Cayce tour over the weekend, visiting the riverwalk with city leaders and meeting with locals at Steel Hands Brewing as he searched for inspiration for South Carolina’s first giant troll sculpture.

Just 18 hours after arriving, Dambo said he’d already found a place with “so much magic” that it could be the perfect fit.

Thomas Dambo walked the Riverwalk with local leaders to find the perfect spot. | Photo provided by Flock and Rally

The tourism angle

The project is part of Cayce’s tourism strategy. Mayor Elise Partin mentioned the city’s miles of riverfront trails, where commercial development isn’t possible. “How, then, do you leverage such an asset?” she said.

Cayce’s answer is a custom attraction intended to bring visitors who will support local restaurants and businesses. The project is being funded with hospitality and accommodations tax revenue designated for tourism-related uses.

Documenting the process

SCETV is documenting Dambo’s visit and the project’s development, with plans for a documentary-style program that could be distributed locally and nationally.

What’s next

Cayce still hasn’t revealed where the troll will go. Dambo’s visit will help inform the final location and design, and the city says residents may eventually have opportunities to take part in the build. Construction is planned for 2027.