The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most incredible places on Earth and it’s home to more than 3,000 ‘reef systems’ that serve as home to all sorts of stunning marine life.
In addition to the natural beauty of the reef systems, there is also another piece of beauty hidden under the ocean waters. The Museum of Underwater Art in Queensland features several masterful installations that serve as a fun tourist attraction — and a place for underwater creatures to grow and thrive!
The largest of them is a 40-foot structure called the “Coral Greenhouse.” The 64-ton piece is “comprised of about 500 steel and concrete parts” and was created by Jason deCaires Taylor, an incredible underwater sculptor.
Jason based the design on a laboratory to celebrate marine biologists and the reef itself.
Jason had this to say about his creations.
“When we talk about reefs, we’re very much talking about what we’re leaving for younger generations.”
I also wanted to encourage more youth into marine science and into exploring and understanding the underwater world. Plus, I wanted the local communities — school students, especially — to become ambassadors for the reef, almost like guardians with a keen interest in how it evolves.
There are also waterproof cameras that are installed throughout the art pieces that allows marine biologists to monitor the reef and marine life.
The creations are an awesome way to add a little extra ‘man-made’ beauty in this world…on top of a slew of natural beauty.
