Underwater Sculpture Coral Reefs of the Caribbean 

Two decades ago, an underwater sculpture garden opened off the coast of Grenada. Artists have discovered this new museum of sorts and have added 31 submerging sculptures under the Caribbean waters. Follow along to hear more about these underwater sculpture coral reefs of the Caribbean. 

Where the Underwater Sculptures Started 

The inaugural underwater sculpture garden emerged off the Grenada coast almost twenty years ago, eliciting widespread acclaim and fascination. Artists have extended this distinctive installation by submerging 31 novel sculptures beneath the clear Caribbean waters. 

Situated in the safeguarded expanse off Grenada's western coastline, the Molinière Underwater Sculpture Park initially spanned 8,600 square feet of ocean floor. It featured 75 sculptures predominantly crafted by British artist and ecologist Jason deCaires Taylor.  

Taylor conceived this initiative to aid Molinere Bay's recovery from the 2004 Hurricane Ivan damage and to heighten awareness about climate change threats. 

Constructed from robust, pH-neutral natural cement, his sculptures shelter coral polyps and diverse marine life, functioning as artificial coral reefs. The sculpture garden swiftly gained popularity among human enthusiasts, drawing snorkelers, scuba divers, and glass-bottom boat sightseers. 

In late October, deCaires Taylor augmented the collection with new pieces crafted in collaboration with Grenadian artists, notably 25 collectively titled "The Coral Carnival." Commissioned by the Grenadian Ministry of Implementation and Tourism, these additions draw inspiration from Spicemas, Grenada's annual carnival celebration. 

Grenada's Spicemas 

Each sculpture within the collection represents an iconic character from Grenada's Spicemas, such as Jab Jab, embodying freedom, and Shortknee, adorned in a vibrant jumpsuit with ankle bells. 

The artistic ensemble further includes depictions of Spicemas figures like Vieux Corps, Pretty Mas, and Wild Indian. Randall Dolland, the Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada Tourism Authority, emphasizes that these new additions collectively "deepen our connection to the rich cultural tapestry of our nation." 

In addition, four other sculptures crafted by Grenadian artist Troy Lewis have been introduced. Among them is a portrayal of the endangered leatherback turtle. These substantial creatures, weighing over 1,000 pounds, grace Grenada's northern beaches, where they lay their eggs every spring. 

CITED: www.underwatersculpture.com, www.sandals.com, www.tripadvisor.com