Cayce approves landmark public art investment, bringing first Thomas Dambo troll sculpture to SC

CAYCE, S.C. (WIS) -Cayce has approved negotiations for a major public art initiative designed to attract visitors and support long-term economic growth, the city announced on Wednesday.

The new project will make Cayce the first city in South Carolina to host one of Thomas Dambo’s internationally recognized troll sculptures made from recycled wood.

Constructed from reclaimed materials and installed in a natural setting, the project is expected to complement the Cayce Riverwalk, the city said.

The sculptures attract tens of thousands of people to communities in the U.S. and around the world each year.

City leaders see the installation as a one-time capital investment that is expected to deliver measurable return on investment, aligning with Cayce’s long-term economic development goals.

“This project represents a smart, forward-looking investment in Cayce’s future,” said mayor Elise Partin.

Communities who host Dambo’s sculptures consistently report tourism revenue that significantly exceeds initial project costs, along with national media exposure valued in the millions.

Cities of similar size report 30 to 60 percent increases in park visitation and tens of thousands of new visitors each year, along with economic impacts between $1 million and $5 million over three to five years.

To view Dambo’s sculptures and learn more about his work, you can visit his website here.

Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WIS. For more free content like this, subscribe to our email newsletter, and download our apps. Have feedback that can help us improve? Click here.