Ocean

Phaidon Editors

Anne-Marie Melster is an interdisciplinary curator and critic and a global advocate for climate and ocean action.

A richly illustrated celebration of the world's oceans and seas through art, history, oceanography, marine biology, and culture

The latest instalment in the bestselling Explorer Series, Ocean takes readers on a journey across continents and cultures to discover the endless ways artists and image-makers have found inspiration in the marine world throughout history.

Showcasing the diversity of the ocean from all over the world, both above and below the waves, this survey spans a wide range of styles and media - from art, scientific illustrations, and sculptures to underwater photography, film stills, and textiles - and follows a visually stunning sequence with works, regardless of period, thoughtfully paired to allow interesting and revealing juxtapositions between them.

The selection of works includes a diverse range of both lesser-known and iconic artists, including Eileen Agar, Carl Chun, Jacques Cousteau, David Doubilet, Ernst Haekel, Damien Hirst, Hokusai, Greg Lecoeur, and Georgia O'Keeffe. The book features large-scale images, accessible texts, and reference information, including a glossary, illustrated timeline, and biographies.

Aimed at a wide audience, the book offers a comprehensive introduction to the subject, but also incudes fascinating examples that will be surprising even for specialists.