In 2006, artist Jason de Caires Taylor founded and created the world’s first underwater sculpture park in the West Indies. Situated off the coast of Grenada in the West Indies it is now listed as one of the Top 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic. His latest creation is MUSA (Museo Subaquatico de Arte), a monumental museum with a collection of over 450 public sculptural works, submerged off the coast of Cancun, Mexico; described by Forbes as one of the world’s most unique travel destinations. Both these ambitious, permanent public works have a practical, functional aspect, facilitating positive interactions between people and fragile underwater habitats while at the same relieving pressure on natural resources.

The sculptures are more than just a stunning and unique attraction, they serve an environmental preservation purpose as well.

Taylor’s beautiful cement figures provide a new habitat for coral and various other marine life. Also, by creating these must-see works of art, snorkelers and divers are diverted from fragile coral reefs.

The artist is currently based in Cancun, Mexico, where he is the founder and Artistic Director of the Museo Subaquatico de Arte (MUSA).

Check out more of his impressive work below, or better yet, go see it up close!