Salmon Stroll: rain-activated art pops up on Ballard sidewalks

Ballard has a new reason to celebrate soggy sidewalks: The Ballard Alliance has just launched the Salmon Stroll, a free, interactive public art experience designed to brighten up rainy days.

Local artist and designer Carolyn Kurth created the moisture-activated salmon artwork, which is now stenciled on sidewalks at 10 secret locations around the neighborhood. The catch? The salmon only appear when the sidewalk is wet, so participants will need to wait for a rainy day to spot them.

The hidden salmon are in the shaded area on the map

To join the Salmon Stroll, pick up a printed scorecard at the Ballard Branch of the Seattle Public Library or Sweet Mickey’s Candy Shoppe (5338 Ballard Ave NW), or download a copy from Visit Ballard.

Once it’s wet outside, head out in search of the hidden salmon along sidewalks in the marked area on the Salmon Stroll map. When you find a salmon, jot down the name of the business or park where it appeared. After finding at least six, return your completed scorecard to Sweet Mickey’s for a treat. The Salmon Stroll is open to folks of all ages.

The project was created by the Ballard Alliance with support from the Ballard Alliance Public Art Committee, which blends local art with community exploration.

Photo: Visit Ballard