Jason deCaires Taylor’s Stunning Underwater Museum

Published March 4, 2014
Updated February 27, 2024

“It’s incredibly interesting working underwater,” says Taylor “The colors are different, the light patterns are very different; the atmosphere and mood is otherworldly. The piece takes on a very different tone underwater — it has a lost feel to it, and brings up all these questions that you wouldn’t have on land.”

Very popular as tourist destinations, the exhibits can be observed and enjoyed from the comfort of a glass bottom boat. However, to get the full effect, it is highly suggested that visitors snorkel or scuba dive through the installations. Even better, changes in water clarity, lighting, and the shadows cast any given time of day ensure that no two visits will be alike. Making good use of time as a tireless artist, the once lighthearted works can easily transform into dark and haunting pieces.

Underwater Museum Shelter Me

Source: Sport Diver

Underwater Museum The Phoenix

Source: WordPress

“Taking art off of the white walls of a gallery offers the viewer a sense of discovery and a sense of participation” Taylor says. “As we all originate from the sea I believe all humans have an intrinsic, built in desire and fascination to return”.

Underwater Museum PreSubmersion

Source: Blogspot

Underwater Museum With Child

Source: Caisie Dilks

Mr. Taylor’s work has taken root in popular culture as well, as Eddie Vedder uses an image of the sculpture Lost Correspondent for the cover of his album Ukulele Songs.

Underwater Museum Underwater Museum  Lost Correspondent

Source: Blogspot

author
Erin Kelly
author
An All That's Interesting writer since 2013, Erin Kelly focuses on historic places, natural wonders, environmental issues, and the world of science. Her work has also been featured in Smithsonian and she's designed several book covers in her career as a graphic artist.
editor
Savannah Cox
editor
Savannah Cox holds a Master's in International Affairs from The New School as well as a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley, and now serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Sheffield. Her work as a writer has also appeared on DNAinfo.