Fish Out of Water

Baltimore, Maryland 2001

The Fish Out of Water project in 2001 was Baltimore’s answer to Chicago’s Cows on Parade of 1999.

The 180 wildly diverse 6-foot-long fish that swam that summer through the byways of Baltimore showcased the talents of many creative artists, and fed the imagination of townsfolk and tourists alike, who organized “fishing” walks to discover and photograph them all, and exchange fish tales.

"WE"

Besides begetting good will and good fun, the grinning fish were a great benefit to the youth of Baltimore. All fish forms and artwork were financed by local civic groups and business sponsors. When the finished creations were auctioned off, all proceeds from auctions and retail products went to City youth programs and Arts education.

Mary Cate-Carroll’s sparkling fish creation, entitled “WE,” is scaled over with mirror bits and shimmering compact discs (and finned with her trademark silvery toys). We see ourselves in its fragmented surfaces, and reflect that “WE are the fish outta water.” It is here shown at left, swimming by the fountain in Mt. Vernon Park. It now swims in a private collection.