Exhibition explores underwater exploration history
The Musée national de la Marine in Paris is hosting an exhibition titled L'appel des profondeurs. Une aventure sous les mers de l'Antiquité à nos jours, which traces the long history of human interest in underwater exploration. The exhibition runs until April 4, 2027, and aims to highlight how science, imagination, and exploration have shaped our understanding of the ocean depths.Exhibition spans ancient times to the present
The exhibition presents a chronological journey from antiquity to the present, covering more than 800 square meters. It includes nearly 280 works that examine the evolution of underwater exploration and the changing perceptions of the ocean over time.Diverse collection of artifacts and artworks
The exhibition features a wide range of items from major institutions, including biological specimens, archaeological objects, ethnographic collections, manuscripts, scientific instruments, diving suits, ship models, paintings, photographs, sculptures, decorative arts, contemporary artworks, and video installations. These items collectively illustrate the breadth of human engagement with the underwater world.Focus on ocean’s challenges and symbolism
The exhibition also delves into the tension between fear and fascination with the ocean depths. It highlights the extreme conditions of the seabed—such as pressure, darkness, cold, and isolation—as well as the symbolic and cultural boundaries that have historically surrounded the ocean.Curators and exhibition location
The exhibition is curated by Louise Contant, head of the collections and research department of the Musée national de la Marine, and Clémence Laurent, collections officer of the same museum. It is located at the Palais de Chaillot, 17 place du Trocadéro, 75016 Paris.
