Journey to Rita: Art, Ancestry, and Adventures in Colorado’s Mountains
The universe often communicates through subtle signs and grand gestures alike.
A recent grand gesture came in the form of whispers about a new sculpture being crafted in Colorado’s mountains. Curiosity piqued, I learned that this sculpture, named Rita the Rock Planter, was the work of the talented Danish artist, Thomas Dambo. Nestled in Victor, Colorado, Rita stands as an artful beacon and has quickly become a hiking destination, joining the ranks of the popular Breckenridge troll, also created by Dambo.
As a fellow artist and a descendent of Scandanivan heritage, I felt an innate connection to this creation. Trolls, after all, are woven deeply into the tapestry of Norwegian folklore. With this ancestral link, my encounter with Rita took on a profound significance.
Hearing that Dambo would address the community, I seized the opportunity to attend. There, Dambo shared an enlightening tidbit. He said, “Trolls know stones have no legs, so it’s rude to remove one stone from a family of stones. Rita likes to reconnect them and plant them with their family.” This insight enriched my understanding of Rita’s purpose. Additionally, Rita’s creation is a chapter in Dambo’s broader “Way of the Bird King” project. In this ambitious endeavor, he journeys from Vermont to Washington, constructing ten trolls and thousands of birdhouses in between. At this point, he has manifested an impressive 119 sculptures and birdhouses with just six more to complete the series.
Motivated by these revelations and a delightful breakfast sandwich from Wendy’s (a personal favorite over McDonald’s), I embarked on a 0.4-mile hike to meet Rita in person. Even with my knee challenges and my partner Tim’s battle with cancer, we marched on. The morning of August 5, 2023, symbolized more than just a hike; it was a testament to living fully and embracing each moment.
Rita’s wooden grandeur compelled me to capture her essence through my lens. One particular snapshot inspired ‘Rita in Bloom’, a vibrant digital painting that’s now available through JolieArtPrints.
This entire odyssey affirmed my belief art is a narrative. It’s a conduit that channels memories, experiences, and an artist’s journey into relatable tales. Rita, with her sustainable wooden framework, isn’t just an art piece. She’s a story, a lesson, and an inspiration.
And as seasons transform, I aim to chronicle Rita’s evolution, solidifying our bond and celebrating life’s rich tapestry. Each visit underscores my commitment to personal growth and appreciation for art’s role in community-building.
As I journey forward, I anticipate the tales my art will narrate and the many more trails Tim and I will tread upon in our beloved Colorado.