Just below the surface of the waters surrounding Isla Mujeres near Cancun, Mexico, hundreds of coral-covered and algae-coated sculptures beckon visitors to strap on their snorkeling gear and go for a dive at the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA).
English sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor is the artistic force behind this exhibit that marries art with Mother Nature. The 460 sculptures of the museum are made of a special marine concrete that encourages algae and coral growth, giving the artwork an ever-evolving color palette as various sea life attaches itself to the sculptures.
The museum is not only creating an eye-catching artificial reef for tourists to enjoy, but it’s also trying to draw tourists away from Cancun’s natural coral reefs, which are taking sustained damage from heavy tourism.
Take a look at this incredible underwater exhibit for yourself with these photos.
(All images courtesy of James deCaires Taylor)
