The Silent Evolution

The Silent Evolution at the Cancun Underwater Museum features 400 life-size figures that form an artificial reef, making it a must-see for divers visiting Cancún, Mexico.

Brief History: Created in 2009 by British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, The Silent Evolution is the largest single installation at the Cancun Underwater Museum. It was conceived as part of the museum’s mission to protect natural coral reefs by drawing visitors to an artificial reef system. The project took over 18 months to complete and involved casting life-size molds of more than 400 individuals from the local community. Notable Features: Arranged in a large circle beneath the sea, the figures are made from pH-neutral marine cement, ensuring they promote coral growth. Over time, the sculptures have been partially covered by coral, sponges, and algae, blending art with the marine environment. Fun Fact or Unique Angle: The work symbolizes the evolution of humanity and its relationship with nature, with each figure representing different walks of life. Divers often remark on the eerie feeling of swimming among human-like forms frozen in time. Current Use or Visitor Info: Located in the Manchones gallery, this piece is best seen by scuba diving due to its depth (around 8–10 meters). Visitors are advised not to touch the sculptures to avoid damaging the developing marine life. Visibility is best from November to April.