What is ArtSea Matchmaking?

ArtSea Matchmaking is an initiative that brings together deep-sea and marine scientists with artists to explore new ways of communicating, experiencing, and connecting with ocean science. Our aim is simple: to create space for collaboration across disciplines. By bringing scientific knowledge and artistic perspectives together, we hope to communicate the ocean in ways that can spark curiosity, emotion, and new ways of seeing the world beneath the surface.

The initiative began in 2025 with an open call for scientists and artists interested in collaborating. More than 60 artists and scientists were matched into creative teams, and over the following year, they explored the possibilities of working together. The resulting collaborations take many forms - from illustrations, posters, and other outreach materials to original artworks created for public exhibitions, aquaria, and other venues. Each team developed its own approach to translating marine science into a creative expression, drawing on their shared interests, ideas, and expertise.

This online exhibition presents the first collection of artworks emerging from these year-long collaborations. It celebrates the creativity of the participating artists and scientists, gives their work a wider audience, and offers a glimpse into the many different ways science and art can meet.

ArtSea Matchmaking is supported by the Deep Sea Biology Society (DSBSoc) and was initiated by Delphine Mestdagh and Lara Beckmann.

If you have any questions, please get in touch with us at art-science@dsbsoc.org.