Underwater Museum of Art
Diving into Art
By Kerri Parker
Here in Walton County, we don’t just appreciate art—we immerse ourselves in it. And in the case of theUnderwater Museum of Art (UMA), we mean that literally. Recognized byTIME Magazine as one of theWorld’s Greatest Places, the UMA isNorth America’s first permanent underwater sculpture park, blending creativity and conservation beneath the surface of the Gulf of Mexico.
A collaboration between theCultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) and theSouth Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA), with support from organizations like theNational Endowment for the Arts, theAlys Foundation, andVisit Florida, this project is more than just breathtaking art—it’s a catalyst for marine life. With95% of Walton County’s Gulf waters consisting of barren sand flats, these sculptures serve as artificial reefs, creating vital habitats where none previously existed.
Since its inaugural deployment in 2018, the UMA has grown withsix installations, adding a total of 47 sculptures to its underwater gallery. And in 2025, they’re making waves again—with your help.
Dine + Dive: A Night to Celebrate Art and Ocean Conservation
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 6 – 9 p.m. forDine + Dive, an evening that will tantalize all the senses while supporting the nation’s first Underwater Museum of Art. This elevated fine art, food, and wine event brings together the best of South Walton’s culinary scene with tasting stations from beloved local restaurants, carefully curated wine pairings, and asilent auction featuring incredible art pieces.
And what’s a celebration without music? HeadlinersJ & The Causeways will keep the energy high all evening long. Plus, there’s a full cash bar with specialty cocktails, ensuring that every sip you take supports the next round of breathtaking sculptures joining the UMA in itsseventh deployment.
