Dive In! was a free, public exhibition that explored the wonders of the ocean, the challenges it faces, and the actions that anyone could take to help save it. MASTS directorate members, Chris Leakey and Hannah Ladd-Jones, sat on the steering group. Running from October 2021 to January 2022, Dive In! explored the ocean environment, climate challenges and engaged audiences in thought and discussion about behavioural changes that they can make in driving positive change for people and planet. 

The exhibition guided visitors through the different “regions” of the marine world from coastal land to the very deepest ocean habitats. The narrative was underpinned by research case examples from the University of St Andrews that showcase the role of marine science in guiding our understanding of and response to global challenges for the ocean and the climate.

Throughout the space, there were “get involved” charismatic characters that guided the visitors in some of the ways they can help the ocean [as shown on the right]. Our friendly animal guides were

• The Krill
• The Adelie penguin
• The Lantern fish
• Harbour seal

In addition, there was a series of events affiliated with the exhibition, both online and in-person.

Dive In! was the result of a cross-disciplinary collaboration led by the Museums of the University of St Andrews, with support from the Scottish Oceans Institute and MASTS’ People Ocean Planet initiative. 

The Dive In! team are now working on visitor experience evaulations and the outputs from focus groups about the exhibition. Results from the impact evaluation will be recorded here when published.

Read our blog on the University of St Andrews Museum page, titled “Why the ocean?”: https://museumblog.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk/2021/10/18/dive-in-why-the-ocean/ [Published October 2021]

Check out the podcast from the University of St Andrews Museum Team “Curiosity Conversations” Featuring Hannah Ladd-Jones and Chris Leakey. Listen here: https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/the-curiosity/dr-chris-leakey-and-hannah-x_lUaBG40h2/  [Released March 2021].