British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, renowned for his groundbreaking underwater art installations, has expanded his renowned Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park right in the center of Grenada's aquatic wonderland.
The project, initially established in 2006 as the world's first of its kind, has now introduced a spectacular new addition—the Coral Carnival.
The Coral Carnival is a mesmerizing ensemble of 27 life-size sculptures, intricately crafted to depict symbolic characters from Grenada's renowned annual Spicemas carnival. A distinctive aspect of this project lies in the fact that these sculptures are cast from members of the local community, infusing a personal and authentic touch into the underwater exhibit.
Working in collaboration with a team of Caribbean artists, Jason deCaires Taylor has breathed life into the Coral Carnival, enriching the Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park with an extraordinary display of creativity and cultural celebration. The sculptural procession beneath the waves embodies a diverse range of symbolic carnival characters, each intricately designed to celebrate Grenada's rich cultural tapestry and historical legacy.
Situated approximately 10 feet underwater, the sculptures beckon snorkelers to explore and appreciate the seamless fusion of art and marine life. This strategic placement ensures that the exhibit is easily accessible, inviting a broader audience to witness the underwater spectacle.
The Coral Carnival not only captivates visually but also stands as a testament to environmental consciousness. Crafted with high-grade stainless steel and PH-neutral marine cement, the sculptures are not just aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly.
Remarkably, this project marks the first instance of using paint on underwater sculptures, with materials carefully selected to be eco-friendly and harmless to the marine ecosystem.
One character within the Coral Carnival narrative is Jab Jab—an emblematic figure deeply rooted in Grenadian culture, symbolizing freedom. Despite the name translating to "double evil," Jab Jab masqueraders, as explained by Taylor, satirize the thoughts and actions of past slave masters, adding profound layers of historical and cultural significance to the underwater masterpiece.
The sculptures' bases are thoughtfully designed with holes and shelters, creating a habitat for marine life such as octopuses and lobsters. This deliberate integration exemplifies a harmonious coexistence between art and nature, underscoring the commitment to preserving and nurturing the underwater environment.
In alignment with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14—Life Below Water, the Coral Carnival project emphasizes the crucial importance of marine conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources. By seamlessly blending art, culture, and marine ecology, this initiative contributes significantly to the global effort to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect our oceans.
More information and images - video credits: https://underwatersculpture.com/
Youtube credits: @Jasondecairestaylorstudio