This “buoy project” demonstrates how successful public art extends well beyond the creative process. Engineering, logistics, procurement, communications, tourism, parks, facilities, and public safety all played important roles in bringing the installations to life.
Case Study: The Great Soccer Ball Hunt
Public Art, Placemaking, and Community Pride in Snohomish County
Project Overview
In anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Snohomish County Arts Commission set out to create something uniquely local—an experience that celebrated both the world's biggest sporting event and Snohomish County's own identity.
The result was five large-scale public art installations, each created from a 58-inch steel maritime buoy transformed into a stylized soccer ball by local artists. The sculptures acknowledge the county's maritime and industrial heritage while creating playful, highly visible landmarks across the region.
One sculpture was installed in each Snohomish County Council District, ensuring countywide access and geographic equity.
More than a temporary celebration, the project created lasting public infrastructure that will continue to serve residents and visitors long after the tournament concludes.
The Opportunity
Major international events often generate excitement in host cities but leave surrounding communities wondering how to participate.
The Arts Commission saw an opportunity to create a distinctly Snohomish County response—one that would:
Celebrate the World Cup through a local lens.
Invest directly in Snohomish County artists.
Activate public spaces across the county.
Encourage residents and visitors to explore multiple communities.
Leave behind permanent public artwork rather than temporary event branding.
Rather than importing a concept, the Commission created something rooted in place.
The Process
The project required coordination across numerous County departments and community partners.
Key components included:
Developing the project concept and public art strategy.
Issuing a public Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and selecting five local artists.
Purchasing and preparing industrial steel maritime buoys.
Designing and fabricating custom steel bases.
Coordinating welding, rigging, transportation, and installation.
Working with Public Works to safely place sculptures at County facilities and parks.
Producing promotional materials, including a printed passport and wayfinding resources, to encourage public participation.
The project demonstrates how successful public art extends well beyond the creative process. Engineering, logistics, procurement, communications, tourism, parks, facilities, and public safety all played important roles in bringing the installations to life.
Community Investment
The project represented a direct investment of $34,590 into Snohomish County's creative economy.
Nine local artists were compensated for design and fabrication work, reinforcing the County's commitment to paying artists professional wages for public commissions.
Beyond artist compensation, the project supported local fabricators, printers, welders, installers, and other regional businesses throughout production and installation.
Outcomes
The project delivered benefits across multiple County priorities.
Economic Development
Invested directly in local artists and creative businesses.
Supported tourism programming connected to the 2026 World Cup.
Created new destinations that encourage visitors to explore multiple communities.
Placemaking
Added five permanent public art installations to County-owned properties.
Highlighted Snohomish County's maritime and industrial heritage through contemporary design.
Enhanced parks and public facilities with engaging, accessible artwork.
Community Engagement
Created a family-friendly public art experience that encourages exploration across the county.
Connected residents with County facilities through art and storytelling.
Fostered civic pride through artwork created by local artists.
Why It Matters
Public art is more than decoration.
When thoughtfully planned, it becomes infrastructure that strengthens communities, supports local artists, creates memorable public places, and helps tell the story of where we live.
The Great Soccer Ball Hunt demonstrates how a relatively modest public investment can generate lasting cultural and economic value while showcasing the creativity that already exists within Snohomish County.
For the Snohomish County Arts Commission, the project represents a simple but meaningful formula:
Invest in artists. Build lasting public spaces. Inspire community pride.