Japan’s First Underwater Sculpture Delves into Concepts of Rebirth and Renewal

For the inaugural time, artist Jason deCaires Taylor has unveiled his underwater sculpture in Japan. *Ocean Gaia* rests nearly 16.5 feet beneath the surface off the coast of Tokunoshima, symbolizing renewal and the connection between humanity and the ocean. As Japan’s first underwater sculpture, it functions not only as an artistic creation but also as a driving force for ecological rejuvenation.

In *Ocean Gaia*, deCaires Taylor envisions the nurturing essence of the sea personified by the renowned Japanese model Kiko Mizuhara. Perched atop a base that resembles sand shifted by ocean currents, she embraces her pregnant form. Despite the sculpture’s weight exceeding 45 tons, the artist has succeeded in imparting a sense of calm and buoyancy to the piece.

The sculpture’s perforated edges create new habitats for aquatic organisms, allowing it to seamlessly integrate into the reef. The themes of rebirth and cyclicality hold significance due to the sculpture’s surroundings. Tokunoshima is noted for its impressive birth rate and a remarkable population of centenarians. Recently, the youth have migrated to urban areas, but this artwork serves as a symbolic invitation to the younger populace, encouraging their return.

By utilizing the piece as a cultural gateway, deCaires Taylor aims to ignite the interest of younger audiences. “Inspired by the myth of Gaia, the primordial mother, the piece contemplates the ocean as the origin and awareness, the foundation from which all existence arose,” the artist states. “It conveys a message of interconnection and respect, reminding us that the ocean is not separate from humanity, but rather an entity upon which we entirely rely.”

### *Ocean Gaia* marks Jason deCaires Taylor’s debut underwater sculpture in Japan.

Positioned 16.5 feet beneath the ocean off Tokunoshima, the installation serves as a reflection on the cycle of life.

Watch as the 45-ton sculpture descends into the ocean.

#### Jason deCaires Taylor: [Website](https://www.underwatersculpture.com/) | [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jasondecairestaylor/) | [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/jasondctaylor/)

*My Modern Met authorized the use of images by Jason deCaires Taylor.*

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