The Lightcatcher-Nocturnal Lanterns

Nocturnal Lanterns ✨🦉 Found along the alley-facing side of the Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher building, these illuminated steel lanterns transform an ordinary alley into a magical nighttime art walk. Created by Sparks Design and the Femme Metal Collective, the installation features hand-cut lanterns inspired by nocturnal animals of the Cascadia bioregion. Installed in January 2026 as part of Bellingham's Downtown Activation and Beautification program, the colorful lights are designed to brighten the alley while celebrating the wildlife that comes alive after dark. They're worth seeing both during the day—but especially at night, when the lanterns glow with prismatic light. Best seen at night in the alley between Flora and Central, mounted art on the outside of the Whatcom Museum-Light Catcher.