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Seattle, Washington / Public art

National Nordic Museum North Lawn Troll

Meet Frankie Feetsplinters, a giant, eco-friendly troll sculpture crafted from upcycled wood. This whimsical guardian greets visitors outside the National Nordic Museum, blending Nordic folklore with modern environmental art.

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National Nordic Museum North Lawn Troll
nordicmuseum.org, og_image_nordicmuseum.org

What is the National Nordic Museum North Lawn Troll?

Known as Frankie Feetsplinters, it is a hand-built giant troll sculpture made of upcycled wood by Danish environmental artist Thomas Dambo. It is one of five of Dambo's troll creations located in Washington State.

Is it free to visit?

Yes, it is free to visit the troll outside the museum, and it can be viewed even when the museum is closed.

Where is the troll located?

Frankie Feetsplinter is located at 2655 NW Market Street, Seattle, WA 98107, right outside the National Nordic Museum in full view of the road.

How can I get there using public transit?

The troll is accessible via bus lines 17 and 44, while line 40 stops within a few blocks.

Is it accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, the troll is on a public sidewalk without barriers like steps, making it accessible to wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Frankie Feetsplinters is a hand-built wood sculpture created by the Danish environmental artist Thomas Dambo. Constructed in 2023, this giant figure is made entirely of upcycled wood, reflecting Dambo's commitment to sustainability and recycled materials. Frankie is one of five troll creations by the artist located throughout Washington State, serving as a whimsical gateway for those visiting the museum. The sculpture is situated on the north lawn, directly outside the National Nordic Museum at 2655 NW Market Street. Because he is positioned in full view of the road on a public sidewalk, he is considered the easiest of the Pacific Northwest trolls to locate. His presence in Seattle is intended to be temporary, with a planned stay of at least three years following his 2023 installation. While the troll is a free attraction accessible to all, he stands as a prelude to the National Nordic Museum. This institution is the only museum of its scale in the United States dedicated to the history and culture of the entire Nordic region, including Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland. The museum's exhibits range from ancient Viking-era artifacts to contemporary society. Visitors are welcome to interact with the sculpture, though guidelines specify that while it is okay to touch Frankie, climbing on him is prohibited. The site is fully accessible for those using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers, ensuring that this piece of public art is inclusive for all who wander through the Ballard neighborhood.

Visitor tips

  • You can visit Frankie for free even when the National Nordic Museum is closed.
  • If you wish to enter the museum, note that adult admission is $20, while children ages 5-18 are $10.
  • The sculpture is easily reachable via public transit using bus lines 17 and 44.
  • Feel free to touch the wood textures, but remember that climbing on the sculpture is not allowed.

Nearby context

Located in the Ballard neighborhood at 2655 NW Market Street, the troll sits on the grounds of the National Nordic Museum. This area serves as a hub for exploring the legacy of Nordic immigrants who settled in the Pacific Northwest.

Sources

Evidence and links