Ocean Cube: An Immersive Deep-Sea Experience in NYC Raising Awareness for Conservation

by Jasmine January 15, 2023

written by Jasmine January 15, 2023

Ocean Cube: An Immersive Deep-Sea Experience

Interactive and Playful Exhibit Raises Awareness for Ocean Conservation

Step into “Ocean Cube,” a captivating pop-up exhibit that transports visitors to a futuristic vision of life under the sea in 2119. Designed by Randy Fernando, the exhibit aims to immerse visitors in a fantastical and bioluminescent experience while drawing attention to pressing ocean conservation concerns.

Five Immersive Rooms

“Ocean Cube” unfolds across five distinct rooms, each offering a unique sensory experience.

Coral Tunnel: A fiber strand-filled channel leads visitors from the “polluted surface” to the deep sea, creating a surreal transition.
Net Guard: This space is lined with fishing nets that protect visitors from both pollution and potential ocean predators, highlighting the impact of human activities on marine life.
Jellyfish Station: As a transportation hub, the Jellyfish Station features jellyfish and whale “vehicles” that connect commuters, showcasing the potential for alternative modes of transportation in the underwater world.
Bubble Mall: Envisioned as a shopping experience, this room features bubbles draping the walls and ceiling, representing brands of clothing, food, and other commercial items, questioning the consumerism that threatens marine ecosystems.
Recycle Bank: The final room presents a sea of plastic water and soda bottles, encouraging visitors to confront the environmental consequences of disposable waste and to leave behind their nightmares related to the current state of the Earth.

Collaboration and Innovation

“Ocean Cube” is a collaborative effort between Intashow LLC, the University at Buffalo’s SMART Lab, and Fabrication Workshop. The exhibition incorporates leftover items from the fabrication workshop, including a repurposed safety window that forms part of the show’s sign, showcasing the potential for sustainable design.

A Call to Action

While “Ocean Cube” adopts an optimistic tone toward the future of the deep sea, it also acknowledges the stark reality of climate change. Studies reveal the increasing frequency and severity of ocean heat waves and climate change-driven habitat loss, posing significant threats to marine biodiversity and the health of our oceans.

A Whimsical Escape with a Sobering Message

“Ocean Cube” offers a whimsical escape from the troubles of life aboveground, inviting visitors to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the ocean environment. However, the exhibition also serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need to protect our oceans and mitigate the effects of climate change.

As Fernando notes, “The show is meant to provide an interactive and playful experience to appreciate the aesthetics of the ocean environment, while incorporating touches of activism.”

Practical Information

“Ocean Cube” is open to the public at 60 Grand Street, New York City, through August 18. Tickets are available via Eventbrite. Don’t miss this immersive and thought-provoking experience that will leave a lasting impression on visitors of all ages.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.