Museum of Underwater Art: A Dive into Ocean Conservation

Situated on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, off the shore of Townsville, North Queensland, the Museum of Underwater Art has unveiled stunning images of unique and captivating installations beneath the waves. This unique marine destination is not only a significant attraction but also serves as a job generator and a hub for marine science and research.

Highlighting Reef Conservation

The Museum of Underwater Art aims to emphasize reef conservation, restoration, and education on a global scale. As the only underwater art museum in the Southern Hemisphere, it features installations by renowned underwater sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor. Over the past ten years, Taylor has created numerous large-scale underwater museums and sculpture parks, amassing a collection of over 850 life-size public works.

Future Installations

Installations have been completed at John Brewer Reef and The Strand, with upcoming projects set for Palm Island and Magnetic Island. The inaugural sculpture Ocean Siren was installed alongside Strand Jetty in Townsville. This piece is modeled on local Wulgurukaba traditional owner Takoda Johnson and is intended to inspire reef and ocean conservation. Moreover, it reacts to live water temperature data from the Davies Reef weather station, dynamically changing color in response to water temperature variations.

The Coral Greenhouse Installation

One of the most notable pieces, Coral Greenhouse, is the largest installation at MOUA and represents the first ever underwater building designed by the artist. Its purpose is to engage scientists, marine students, and tourists, encouraging interaction through snorkeling or diving as part of action-based learning. Weighing more than 58 tons, it is filled with and surrounded by 20 “reef guardians” made from stainless steel and pH-neutral materials, promoting natural coral growth.

Conclusion

“Townsville is the hub for marine science, and the Museum of Underwater Art only adds to this by offering a unique and thought-provoking encounter with the world’s most iconic natural wonder, while acting as a contemporary platform to share the stories of the reef, and the culture of its First Nations people,” said MOUA board chair Paul Victory. The completion of the Museum of Underwater Art is slated for 2021, promising an enriching experience for visitors and marine enthusiasts alike.

For more information on MOUA, visit their official website.