Submerged Sculptures: A New Vision for Marine Art

The Museum of art and Habitat (Mumar), spearheaded by founder Camilo Galeano, has recently added a new piece to it’s aspiring underwater art project. The sculpture, named El Caracol (the Snail), is the latest endeavor to transform the seabed off the coast of cartagena into a unique space where art meets environmental sustainability.

‘El Caracol’: A Durable Testament to Art

Crafted by Cartagena artist José Olano, El Caracol is a steel sculpture standing over three meters tall. Galeano explained that the choice of steel ensures the artwork’s longevity in its marine environment. The steel used has an estimated useful life between 20 and 30 years underwater, Galeano stated, noting the project cost between $40 and $50 million. Before its submersion, the sculpture was displayed in Cartagena, allowing the public to appreciate the artwork before it became part of the underwater landscape.

‘jellyfish Garden’: Embracing Natural Conversion

In contrast to the enduring nature of El Caracol, mumar’s previous installation, Jellyfish garden, was designed with a different philosophy. Created by artist Germán Botero, this wooden sculpture was intended to gradually disintegrate, providing a substrate for corals and other marine life to colonize and transform the artwork over time. This approach highlights the diverse artistic visions within the project, where artists are given the freedom to dictate the lifespan and impact of their creations.

Unlike El Caracol’s steel structure, wich is designed to endure, jellyfish garden wood deteriorated intentionally, contributing to the process of transformation of the seabed.

Navigating Bureaucracy: Challenges and Triumphs

The process of establishing an underwater art gallery is not without its hurdles. Galeano emphasized the complex permitting process, which involves multiple authorities, including the Ministry of Defense and the Regional autonomous Corporation of the Canal del Dique (Cardique). These bureaucratic procedures can considerably delay project execution. Despite these challenges, the concession granted to the Colorado Blue Foundation, led by Galeano, was among the first of its kind in colombia, authorizing the installation of underwater art and solidifying the project’s long-term viability.

Collaborative Efforts: A Foundation for Growth

The success of Mumar relies heavily on the support of various public and private entities. Serport, 3G builders, Every Sea, and local tourism and diving operators have all played crucial roles in bringing this vision to life. This collaborative model is essential for the project’s continued expansion, with plans to install between 10 and 20 underwater artworks within the next five years. Such partnerships are increasingly vital for cultural initiatives, mirroring trends seen globally where public-private collaborations drive innovation and sustainability in the arts.

The Vision: Cartagena as a Cultural and Tourist Destination

Galeano envisions Mumar as a catalyst for tourism and cultural enrichment in Cartagena. By combining art, conservation, and sustainability, the project aims to position the city as a unique destination for visitors seeking enriching experiences. The potential economic benefits are significant, with cultural tourism contributing billions to economies worldwide. Mumar hopes to tap into this potential, attracting art enthusiasts, divers, and environmentally conscious travelers alike.

According to him, the impact of this type of project could benefit the city at a tourist and cultural level, positioning Cartagena as a unique destination that combines art, conservation and sustainability.