Jason offers artistic way to make us sea
THE creation of one of Townsville’s most significant tourism and marine sciences projects is a step closer with the arrival this month of acclaimed international artist Jason deCaires Taylor.
The Museum of Underwater Art will be the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere and Townsville Enterprise says the project is expected to draw an additional 50,000 visitors annually upon completion, with an estimated economic impact of $ 43 million injected into the region’s economy each year.
Underwater art museums are artistic installations usually involving sculptured works placed on the sea floor or riverbeds to provide fascinating visual experiences for visitors.
Townsville Enterprise director tourism and events Bridget Woods said the return of British artist deCaires Taylor was keenly anticipated.
“We’re excited to welcome Jason to Townsville from September 24 to October 8 to discuss all facets of the project, including community engagement,” she said.
“This project has the potential to extend our region’s existing educational reef and tourism offerings to create a seamless learning journey between the land and ocean, while also enhancing our re- gion’s international profile and visitor attraction.”
Ms Woods said the project had received a $ 2 million State Government grant on top of $ 800,000 raised through corporate partnerships with SeaLink, Morris Foundation, Billabong Sanctuary, Gleeson Family, Pacific Marine and Port of Townsville.
“We are seeking an additional $ 5 million funding commitment to support the development of the project,” she said.
“This priority is included in our 2018- 19 federal election priorities document that we presented to a range of ministers last month in Canberra and forms a key part of our advocacy efforts for the region on both a state and federal level.
“The MOUA board is also working towards securing additional philanthropic support towards the project.”
Ms Woods said it was planned to have the first art installed off The Strand in the first quarter of next year.
“As this will be an intertidal piece that can be experienced from the shore along the Strand it will immediately create excitement about the project within the community and among visitors,” she said.
“We encourage the community to follow the MOUA – Museum of Underwater Art Facebook page and pledge support towards the project.
“At a later stage in the project’s development the community will have the opportunity to view the pieces being constructed by Jason.”