Afloat, the buoy project

Afloat, the buoy project, is a community-wide participatory public art project designed by local artist Lauren Pallotta Stumberg, that was launched Feb, 2025 and final installation scheduled for June, 2025.

The objective of this installation is to draw the community together, uplift neighbors after the 2024 hurricane season and devastating flooding, and use art as a tool for cultivating connection and a sense of place. 

In partnership with Island Arts Council and supported by the Arts Council of Wilmington, the New Hanover County Endowment, and the Town of Carolina Beach, this project is engaging the local community to paint buoys with bright cheery colors, patterns, images and words of encouragement to reflect the neighborly acts of kindness and seaside spirit that keep our community afloat. 

Current participants either registered for monthly workshops or purchased a take-home buoy kit. Remaining workshops are full and buoy kit sales have ended. 

However, you can still participate! 

We will be having two COMMUNITY PAINT DAYS in May at the CB Lake Park: 

• Saturday, May 17th from 10am to 4pm at MuralFest 
• Saturday, May 24th from 8am to 1pm at the Lake Park Market

Please note that buoys will be available on a first come, first serve basis, and paint times depend on space available under the tent. 

Inventory is limited; only small buoys will be available to paint for $10 each. Limit is TWO per person. We hope to see you!

• 300 Buoys painted in various patterns designed by participants with potential inspirational sayings or words of encouragement. 300 Buoys!
• Four workshops with 20 participants .
• Up to 100 “buoy kits”  for purchase for community members to complete at home if they are unable to attend workshops.
• Public paint events will be held for more involvement