Beneath the Surface is a multimedia installation inspired by the experience of diving in coral reefs of French Polynesia. Globally, coral reefs are under significant threat from rising sea temperatures and other effects of anthropogenic climate change. Reefs are crucial habitats for marine biodiversity, supporting 25% of our oceans species despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. The complex structure of coral reefs also acts as a natural barrier, dissipating wave energy and reducing the force of incoming storms to protect human coastal communities. Coral reefs are not merely underwater ecosystems; they are vital lifelines, offering sustenance, economic stability, medicine, and cultural richness to over a billion people around the world.

By recreating the immersive sensation of diving in the reefs, viewers are able to gain a better understanding of how both beautiful and crucial these environments are to our oceans. Providing immersive experiences that allow people to explore coral reefs can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and fostering a deeper appreciation for these ecosystems. Viewers were provided with a handout to help provide further context to the installation as well as inform them of actionable items individuals can do to advocate for our ocean and reef ecosystems.

"The quick on your feet nature of art and expression where sometimes we just had to go with the flow when two of our coral glass structures broke, we had to maneuver and realize that was all part of the process. It was cool to see that one of the broken glass structures for our dead coral actually added to the destructive elements of it which was really interesting and a good lesson in appreciating the process. Overall, I learned that collaboration is necessary to move science and art forward and can be a useful tool to reach further audiences and bring ideas and connections to our ecosystems to others."

-Danielle