Imagine a time before cameras! How did people capture the amazing ocean? Artists used their magic to paint pictures of the sea, the waves, and all the cool creatures that live there.

From the beginning of civilisation, cave paintings showed fish and other sea animals, showing us that people have always been fascinated by the ocean. Ancient Egyptians painted pictures of the Nile River, which was very important to them. When people started exploring the world by ship, artists painted pictures of their adventures. They showed stormy seas, brave sailors, and exciting new sea creatures they discovered.

Some artists even painted how the ocean makes them feel – powerful and scary, or beautiful and peaceful. Some artists even use their art to remind us how important it is to take care of the ocean.

Here are some of the most famous paintings of the ocean:

"The Ninth Wave" by Ivan Aivazovsky: This painting shows a huge wave crashing down on a group of sailors. It's a bit scary, but also really powerful.

"The Monk by the Sea" by Caspar David Friedrich: This painting shows a monk looking out at the ocean. It's a bit mysterious – what is he thinking about? Also, notice how small he looks compared to the vastness of the sea. It makes you realize how powerful and immense the ocean truly is.

"The Great Wave off Kanagawa" by Katsushika Hokusai: This Japanese painting shows a giant wave that looks like it's about to crash down on some boats. It's both scary and beautiful! How does it make you feel?

"Fishermen at Sea" by J.M.W. Turner: This painting shows a ship battling a storm. It's a reminder of how powerful the ocean can be.

"Fish Magic" by Paul Klee: This unique painting by Paul Klee uses a combination of colors and textures to create a magical underwater world. It's almost like looking through a window into a secret underwater garden!

Beyond Paintings: A Book of Fantastical Fish

While not strictly a painting, it's worth mentioning "Fish, crayfish and crabs…" by Louis Renard. Th book, published in 1719, features illustrations of marine creatures from the East Indies. Renard never actually visited these regions and he based his illustrations on notes, and drawings from other artists. As a result, many of the creatures depicted in the book are quite fanciful, but they are all beautiful. Don't you think so?

These examples show us how artists have seen the ocean throughout history. Some are exciting, some are scary, and some are just beautiful. By looking at these paintings and illustrations, we can learn more about the ocean and how people have connected with it over time.

Sculptures Beneath the Waves

Did you know that there are entire museums underwater? Here is one!

The Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA) in Mexico is a collection of sculptures submerged off the coast of Cancun. These sculptures are designed to attract marine life and promote coral reef growth. Visit thei website to learn more at MUSA

Archaeological Wonders Underwater

Believe it or not, there are ancient cities and civilizations hidden beneath the waves!

The ancient Roman port city of Baiae in Italy is now mostly submerged. Here you can learn more. This underwater archaeological site offer a glimpse into the past and remind us of the ever-changing relationship between humans and the sea.

Get Creative!

Draw your own underwater scene: Imagine you're a deep-sea explorer. What amazing creatures would you encounter? 

Create a sculpture: Use clay or recycled materials to build a sea creature or a representation of the ocean.

Research: Learn more about a famous seascape painting or an underwater archaeological site that interests you.

The ocean is a vast and mysterious place, full of wonder and inspiration. Through art, we can explore its beauty and learn more about its secrets.