Meet the Artists Who Brought Bacchus to Life
Discover the creative vision of Allen and Kristine Armstrong, the artists behind Johnson City’s unforgettable 20-foot wooden Wine Troll.
Monumental Craftsmanship
Whimsical Storytelling
A Texas Landmark
Allen & Kristine Armstrong
Allen and Kristine Armstrong are the imaginative artists behind Bacchus The Wine Troll, a larger-than-life wooden sculpture that has become a beloved stop along the Texas 290 Wine Trail. Drawing on their passion for expressive public art, handcrafted detail, and playful storytelling, the Armstrongs transformed natural materials into a welcoming character with a personality all his own. Their work invites visitors of every age to pause, smile, take photos, and experience the joy of art in the open air.
“We wanted to create something people could discover, enjoy, and remember together.”
Creating Bacchus The Wine Troll
Public Wood Sculpture
Client
Created by Allen and Kristine Armstrong for the Johnson City community and its many visitors.
Date
Completed in Johnson City, Texas
My Role
Landmark Public Art
Allen and Kristine Armstrong began with a bold idea: create a giant wooden character that would feel at home in the Hill Country while giving travelers a one-of-a-kind reason to stop, explore, and share a smile. Through thoughtful design, skilled construction, and a deep appreciation for whimsical detail, they shaped that idea into Bacchus—a towering 20-foot sculpture with a warm, memorable presence. Today, Bacchus stands as a distinctive public art attraction where families, wine-trail travelers, and curious passersby can get close, take pictures, and enjoy a free Johnson City experience.
"We wanted Bacchus to feel like a friend visitors discover along the wine trail—big enough to inspire awe, detailed enough to reward a closer look, and welcoming enough to make everyone smile."
Allen Kristine Armstrong
Artists and creators of Bacchus The Wine Troll
From Raw Timber to Texas Landmark
Allen & Kristine Armstrong Bring Bacchus to Life
What Visitors Say About Bacchus
“Our kids could not believe how tall Bacchus was. We took photos, sat beside him, and made a wonderful family memory in Johnson City.”
— The Odiorne Family
“We spotted Bacchus while traveling the Texas 290 Wine Trail and had to stop. He is a fun, unforgettable piece of art—and the perfect photo stop.”
— Megan T., Wine Trail Traveler
“Bacchus gives Johnson City something truly special. He makes visitors smile and adds so much character to our community.”
— David L., Johnson City Resident
Come Meet Bacchus in Johnson City
Visit Allen and Kristine Armstrong’s one-of-a-kind creation at 607 South Ave. F, Johnson City, TX. Park, walk up, take as many photos as you like, and enjoy this free public art experience with Bacchus The Wine Troll.