The History of Diving Museum in Islamorada features its newest exhibit, “Diving in Pop Culture,” beginning Wednesday, April 21.
The exhibit, which runs through December, includes representations of diving in literature, advertising, film, games, music, collectibles and more, from “Reap the Wild Wind” to Wes Anderson’s homage to Jacques Cousteau in “Life Aquatic.”
Whether in “Frogmen,” “The Abyss,” or “Sealab 2020,” popular culture’s depictions of diving inspire, encourage and sometimes terrify divers and non-divers alike. Artifacts on display include a scuba regulator with a Star Wars backstory, Van Halen’s 1982 record Diver Down, and a variety of gear and equipment seen in films and television shows like “Sea Hunt,” “Jaws” and “Men of Honor.”
Also showcased are vintage advertisements, magazine spreads, and other materials from the museum’s robust archival collection.
“Diving in Pop Culture” also ties to the museum’s permanent exhibit celebrating Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.
Register for April’s virtual Immerse Yourself presentation on Wednesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. The museum will be hosting William Yanni as he discusses aspects of diving tied to theatrical productions. Yanni was part of the dive safety crew for Cirque Du Soleil’s aquatic show “O.” This Vegas-based, contemporary circus is performed in and around a 1.5 million gallon tank, with the help of numerous divers.
The museum and Yanni will co-host the presentation live through a private Zoom meeting. If you are interested in joining, email community outreach coordinator Emily Kovacs, at programs@divingmuseum.org or call the museum at 305-664-9737 to receive the Zoom meeting number and password.
