The Sawmill Museum

This Spring, build with Thomas Dambo in Clinton, IA!

Created by Ari Lewerenz Contact

Be part of building something truly extraordinary as The Sawmill Museum and The Bickelhaupt Arboretum work alongside artist Thomas Dambo to bring giant wooden trolls to life in Clinton, Iowa!

Thomas Dambo’s art projects offer hands-on experiences that teach valuable skills and promote environmental awareness.

Volunteering with Thomas Dambo
Central to Thomas Dambo's work is his commitment to involving local communities in every step of the artistic process.
Volunteering with Thomas Dambo builds meaningful connections and evokes ownership, pride, and unity among participants.


Wood sculptures - do I need to be a carpenter?
The answer is no. Thomas works primarily with wood, and it would be valuable if the volunteer could use a drill, a jigsaw, or maybe a handsaw, but it is not mandatory.
Engagement in the project is essential, and most things can be taught to the volunteers. The Thomas Dambo team can always use help with taking pallets apart, oiling the wood, cleaning during a build, bringing coffee, or baking a cake for the crew after a long day.

Carpenters pick up the process faster in regards to building, but a homemade meal or a good cleanup is also beneficial.
No children under 18 years old without a parent's attendance.

Work hours and shifts
The Thomas Dambo team will work for 3 weeks Monday-Friday 8:30AM – 6:00PM


Volunteer shifts
Usually, we use 4-5 volunteers per shift for a troll build.
Monday-Friday
Morning Shift 8:30AM – 12:30PM
Lunch Break
Afternoon Shift 1:00PM – 6:00PM

The volunteers are expected to sign up for full-day shifts or half days (until lunch at 12). Volunteers must bring their water bottle and food.
Ideally, each volunteer signs up for at least two shifts during the installation phase. This is because it allows the Thomas Dambo Team not to have a new lesson in tools and safety every time, and the volunteers have already introduced themselves to the team.
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Dates and locations
Event Locations

Marvin -Build 1, ...

1 spot open

Helmut -Build 2, ...

all spots filled

Friday, April 17, 2026 at 08:30 am to 06:00 pm (Central Time (US & Canada))
Marvin -Build 1, 340 S 14th St, Clinton, IA 52732, USA
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PRIVATE

08:30 am - 12:30 pm - Central Time (US & Canada)

  • Builder AM
    Spots Full
  • Site Runner AM
    Spots Full
  • Provider of Vegetarian Lunch for 10 people
    Spots Full

01:00 pm - 06:00 pm - Central Time (US & Canada)

  • Builder PM
    Spots Full
  • Site Runner PM
    1 spot available
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We want to get to know you!

Are you 18 years old? *
We're excited you are interested in volunteering to build alongside with Thomas Dambo! Have you heard of his work in the past? *
Select your level of comfort with power tools and building stuff *
The Thomas Dambo team can always use help with taking pallets apart, oiling the wood, cleaning during a build, bringing coffee, or baking a cake for the crew after a long day. Is this more up your alley? Select all that apply:
I will be present at the specified time on the build site. *
I know I need to bring my own water bottle and food. *