Oceanographic Museum of Monaco: Taba Naba exhibition to defend the ocean

The exhibition 'Taba Naba' at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco runs until September 30th. The theme 'Australia, Oceania, Arts by Peoples of the Sea' tells how people from the New Continent feel and express their relationship with the ocean.

The exhibition is divided into three parts and it includes everyday objects: finely crafted and decorated wooden oars, necklaces of colored shells, valuable works of dot painting, sculptures made specifically by Aboriginal artists.

The exhibition shows ancient wisdom and knowledge and the law of daily life, and is aimed at raising awareness on the dangers of pollution and at promoting native people's culture. 'Taba Naba' comes from a traditional nursery rhyme that evokes the pleasures of fishing on the rocks.

The theme is approached from varying perspectives thanks to the participation of many artists. There are three complementary sections, developed with three prominent partners from this unique art form:

• Australia: Defending the Oceans at the Heart of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Art by Stéphane Jacob
• Living Waters, the Sordello & Missana Collection by Erica Izett
• Oceania islanders: past masters in sea navigatation and artistic expression by Didier Zanette

In addition, the 'Whale Hall' welcomes visitors with a big fin whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling along with those of other 13 cetaceans. In fact, the Principality of Monaco shares with France and Italy the Pelagos Sanctuary for the protection of marine mammals in the Mediterranean sea, where as many as 8 species dwell thanks to the abundance of food. The fin whale is the second largest whale in the world. This skeleton, measuring more than 18 meters and weighs 2.8 tons just floats in the air.

The 'Whale' room also features an original and interactive exhibition dedicated to sharks, to expand visitors' knowledge about this species and promote their protection. Finally, visitors can also admire the Natural History Collection, which includes nautilus shells, ray fish eggs from the sea in Cap d'Ail and the oldest aquatic plant (9 thousand years!) from the coast of Naples.

A day at the Oceanographic Museum ending on the rooftop terrace is certainly a worth experience for the whole family!

for more information: www.oceano.mc/en/exhibitions