From Mexico to Marseille, underwater museums are taking immersive art experiences to a whole new level. A journey to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef reveals one of the world’s newest aquatic galleries.
Discovering the Coral Greenhouse
There’s something a little unnerving about sinking into the aquamarine abyss towards a large, dark shadow. For a moment, it feels as if I’m encountering something prehistoric, yet this figure transforms into an icon of artistic expression.
Situated in a sheltered lagoon on John Brewer Reef, a largely untouched corner of the Great Barrier Reef near Townsville, the Coral Greenhouse is the second and largest part of northern Queensland’s innovative Museum on Underwater Art (MOUA). Opened to divers in August, this A-frame greenhouse has already attracted a diverse array of marine life, highlighting the health of the surrounding ecosystem.
Designed by renowned British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor in collaboration with the Wulgurukaba people, MOUA offers a remarkable means to experience the Great Barrier Reef while emphasizing the importance of marine conservation. Reflecting the Aboriginal tradition of caring for Country, the greenhouse’s human sculptures are depicted undertaking various conservation activities, showcasing the significance of protecting the world’s largest living organism.
While it’s easy to spend your entire diving experience observing this futuristic underwater garden, featuring additional sculptures like eucalyptus trees and gardeners, visitors are also encouraged to explore the vibrant reef that encircles it. With ample air remaining in our tanks, my dive buddy and I follow a white-tipped reef shark along an exquisite coral wall. Despite recent reports stating that the 2300km-long reef has lost half its coral, the area surrounding the greenhouse remains abundantly colorful and lively.
Seated at a depth of 12-18m, the Coral Greenhouse is ideal for Open Water-certified divers and above. However, Discover Scuba Divers can explore it up to a maximum depth of 12m. Additionally, snorkellers and freedivers can enjoy a close view of the museum and the shallow reef, making it an inclusive attraction.
As weather conditions interfered with my chance to dive the SS Yongala, known as Australia’s premier wreck dive, it’s clear this visit to Townsville is just one of many in my future. The Museum on Underwater Art is expected to expand with the third installation anticipated at nearby Palm Island, followed by a final gallery at Magnetic Island, just a 45-minute ferry ride from the city. Additional plans include launching a coral planting program, which would empower visitors to participate actively in reef conservation.
Later that evening, a stroll along Townsville’s scenic waterfront reveals Ocean Siren – MOUA’s inaugural sculpture that rises from the ocean alongside the Strand Jetty. This solar-illuminated figure changes hues in response to live variations in water temperature, serving as both a powerful warning and a symbol of hope for the future of the Great Barrier Reef.
