Sculptures are incredible molded figures that, in addition to having an important aesthetic value, can also convey a powerful message. As Oceans Day approaches, we'd like to tell you about some of the most amazing underwater sculptures found around the world.
Life and art under the sea
The main reference point for underwater art is Jason deCaires Taylor. He came up with the idea of sculpting underwater figures after the seabed off the small Caribbean island of Grenada was severely damaged by storms, leaving the coral reefs in a terrible state of preservation. In this way, he managed to combine his three main passions: diving, sculpture, and nature.
The artist had a vision and wanted to make it a reality: through his works, the entire marine ecosystem would have the opportunity to regenerate by adhering to the walls of his sculptures, and could also serve as a refuge for marine creatures like crabs. And, of course, Taylor kept in mind that the concrete blocks he used for his creations had to have a neutral pH so as not to contaminate the marine habitat.
His work revolves around the idea of human intervention in nature, although not always with a negative connotation. Now that we know a little more about this project, let's tell you more about some of the statues that are part of it.
The silent evolution
This was his first underwater sculpture, and as you can see, it's anything but modest. It's a complex sculpture of sculptures with numerous life-size human figures. He says that what makes the most sense to him is for viewers to see his work while diving, so they can have an experience that wouldn't be possible in a museum, since the sea isn't subject to gravity in the same way. As we've already mentioned, the sculptor truly seeks to benefit the entire marine ecosystem from his work, so visiting his underwater sculptures offers you the opportunity to see how sea sponges grow around them and how the sun enhances their colors. In his words, "something absolutely amazing."
Oceanic Atlas, the world's largest underwater statue
This is the largest underwater statue located in New Providence, Bahamas, and is also the work of Jason deCaires Taylor. It weighs a whopping 60 tons, and the artist seeks to reflect in his work the urgent need to conserve our oceans. In fact, the statue is located right in a critical spot: near a refinery that was leaking water onto the coral reefs. Thus, "Ocean Atlas" is a wake-up call to all those who pollute the sea.
Inertia, a fierce criticism
Another of his best-known works is "Inertia." This sculpture depicts a man sprawled on his couch, shirtless, watching television with a half-eaten plate on his knees. At first glance, it might seem funny that we can find a man watching television underwater, but the criticism behind this work of art is that nature always devours those who don't act against its destruction.
More marine statues you should know
Jason deCaires Taylor is perhaps the leading author in the world of underwater statues, but there are other works we think are also very interesting to explore. However, we recommend checking out the rest of his work because it's truly incredible.
Statue of a mermaid in Grand Cayman
Just 50 meters off the southeast coast of Grand Cayman Island and at a depth of 15 meters, sits an impressive statue of a mermaid weighing approximately 272 kg. The mermaid sculpture is facing upward, and the movement of its body seems to indicate that it's trying to ascend. Perhaps it's trying to speak to us about the long-awaited preservation of the oceans? Either way, divers can easily find this statue and even take a selfie with it. However, only experienced scuba divers should dive to such depths. Simple swimmers without the necessary knowledge or equipment should not dive to such depths.
Christ of the Abyss of the Italian Riviera
Italian sculptor Guido Galletti wanted to pay a beautiful tribute to the Italian diver Dario Gonzatti with a 2.5-meter-high sculpture of Christ on the very spot where Gonzatti lost his life. The sculpture is made of bronze and lies at a depth of 10 meters. Even today, many divers and snorkelers visit the site to honor this diver and to pay tribute to the many others who have lost their lives at sea.
Tools for cutting stone and sculpting your own sculptures
If you'd like to delve into the world of sculpture, sculpt your own figures, and learn more about this art, each week we'll tell you a little more about different things you should know to become a true sculptor.
Our extensive catalog of tools covers the needs of both beginners who want to start carving and designing their own figures and professionals. If you have any questions, don't worry; we'll be happy to help you with anything you need.
