Welcome to the Museo Atlántico, Europe’s first underwater sculpture museum, located off the coast of Lanzarote in the Bahía de Las Coloradas. This remarkable attraction, designed by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, is a unique blend of art, marine conservation, and environmental awareness.
The Museo Atlántico boasts over 300 life-size sculptures, carefully placed 39 feet above the sea floor. These sculptures are the result of almost three years of meticulous work by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, known for his groundbreaking underwater installations. The museum features 12 extensive installations, making it the largest-scale project by the artist to date.
The sculptures are crafted from pH-neutral materials, ensuring their longevity as an artificial reef. Designed to endure for hundreds of years, these artworks serve a dual purpose. Not only do they captivate the imagination of divers and art enthusiasts, but they also function as a thriving habitat for marine life.
The museum stands as a testament to the intersection of art and ecology, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation.
The figures within the museum draw inspiration from the Guanches, the cave-dwelling Aboriginal people who once inhabited the Canary Islands. Jason deCaires Taylor also invited locals to model for some of the sculptures, adding a personal touch to this underwater gallery. One particularly moving installation, “The Raft of Lampedusa,” addresses the poignant reality of the refugee crisis, emphasizing the artist’s commitment to raising awareness about pressing global issues.
The “Human Gyre” installation is a focal point, featuring over 200 human characters of various ages and sizes. Beyond this, divers can explore scenes like a businessman in a suit on a playground, children rowing fishing boats, and a thought-provoking swing and sea saw. Each sculpture tells a story, inviting visitors to contemplate the intricate connection between humanity and the ocean.
Beyond its artistic brilliance, the Museo Atlántico serves as a platform to educate the public about environmental conservation and marine ecology. Through immersive experiences, visitors are prompted to reflect on the fragility of our oceans and the importance of sustainable practices.
In addition to the sculptures, divers can explore a 100-ton, 90-foot-long wall and a botanical garden featuring flower sculptures. A unique twisted cactus model acts as a living station, providing a habitat for octopuses, sea urchins, and juvenile fish.
The Museo Atlántico is a testament to the power of art to inspire, provoke thought, and drive positive change. As you dive into the depths of this underwater wonder, you’ll witness the seamless integration of creativity and environmental consciousness. The museum stands as a beacon, inviting visitors to appreciate the beauty of the underwater world while emphasizing the need for its preservation.
