Eco-sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor’s latest work, “Ocean Atlas” is inspired by the ancient Greek myth of Titan Atlas who supported the weight of the heavens on his back.
This 60-ton, 16-foot-high sculpture depicts a Bahamian girl who carries the “ceiling of the ocean” on her back. It was installed earlier this month on the western shore of New Providence, Nassau, Bahamas.
It is said to be the “largest single sculpture ever to be deployed underwater,” and was assembled underwater in sections “using an ambitious new technique developed and engineered” by the artist.
The sculpture commissioned by B.R.E.E.F (Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation) aims to create an underwater sculpture garden in honor of its founder Sir Nicholas Nuttall. It includes other sculptural works by local artists Willicey Tynes and Andret John and an artificial reef trail designed by Reefball.
The new work, which during low tide will reflect a mirror image on the underside of the sea’s surface, is a dramatic increase in scale from Taylor’s previous works and ensures that even after substantial coral growth the figure will still remain highly recognisable. A solar light and flag is located on the highest point to aid marine navigation.
Constructed using sustainable pH neutral materials it creates an artificial reef for marine life to colonise and inhabit, whilst drawing tourists away from over stressed natural reef areas.
With our oceans and coral reefs currently facing collapse from numerous threats including; overfishing, habitat loss, ocean acidification, global warming and water pollution the piece symbolizes the burden we are currently asking future generations to carry and the collective responsibility we have to prevent its collapse.
More at underwatersculpture.com, or the artist’s Facebook page.
