Erik brought the artist named Foots to our attention a few months ago. Remember him? Foots is in the process of building a huge underwater reef – comprising 150,000 pounds of sculptured stone! – off Cayman Brac that's meant to resemble the lost city of Atlantis. Well, guess what? If you thought it was all a big joke, Scuba Diving awarded it the "Best New Artificial Reef" Award at DEMA this week. Moreover, guided tours of the artist's creation are currently underway!
Phase one of the project consists of the Archway of Atlantis and the Elders' Way, which is a pathway lined with eleven 5-foot temple columns leading to the Inner Circle of Light, an enormous Sundial and base weighing nearly 10,000 pounds. Nearby stands the 18 foot tall Pyramid of Atlantis, weighing in excess of 40,000 pounds. According to Foots, marine life has started to move into the reef, which is located in about 40 to 50 feet of water, making it an easily accessible dive for novices.
UPDATE: Divester has lots of exclusive photos of Foots' Lost City of Atlantis!
1. The Lost City of Atlantis is by far and will continue to be the best underwater experience in the world! Already inhabited by many fish, urchins and other underwater creatures, it lies on a pristine sand floor in the turquoise Caribbean just off Cayman Brac. Having known Foots for many years, his creation comes as no surprise. An expert in mold making and working with concrete, this is a natural extension of his creativity and imagination. When finished, Atlantis will have no equal, but I expect to see others trying to copy his work. No small chore to sink and erect this statuary, Foots has worked non stop to bring this dream to fruition. But when you talk to him about this project, he is elated, to quote him he is "having the time of his life." I must admit, I am a bit prejudiced, having been given the unmeasurable honor of being chosen as a Sentinel to stand guard over this marvelous place for eternity. Nonetheless, this is a must see for every diver!
Posted at 11:30AM on Oct 16th 2005 by Rusty Wood