Alexis Rockman (United States, b. 1962), Oceanus, 2022. Oil and cold wax on Dibond on aluminum substrate, 99 1/2” x 286 1/2” x 2 1/8”, Mystic Seaport Museum Collection.
Alexis Rockman: Oceanus Closes January 4, 2026
Journey through the powerful intersection of art, science, and history in Alexis Rockman: Oceanus. This exhibition confronts humanity's relationship with the ocean, exploring biodiversity, climate change, and the enduring impact of human activity on our seas. At the heart of the exhibit is an awe-inspiring 8’ x 24’ oil painting, a timeline of human intervention in marine environments. Its climax—a radiant tsunami wave of epic proportions—symbolizes both the beauty and fragility of our oceans. Beneath the waves, marine species vividly illustrate stories of exploitation, resilience, and survival, from the era of whaling to the modern challenges of seabed mining.
Complementing the centerpiece are ten watercolors, each a vivid meditation on themes of ecosystem decline and species survival. These works, commissioned in 2021 by Mystic Seaport Museum, blend historical maritime artifacts with groundbreaking scientific insights to create an immersive, thought-provoking experience. Oceanus is more than an art exhibition—it’s a call to reflect on the legacy we leave behind and a celebration of the ocean's enduring power and wonder.
Support Comes From
The Minnesota Marine Art Museum acknowledges the generous support to make this exhibition possible from our members, our corporate Friends of MMAM, the Mardag Foundation, the Elizabeth Callender King Foundation, and the Morgan Family Foundation. Special thanks to our lead sponsor Merchants Bank, our media partner, Minnesota Public Radio, and the Minnesota State Arts Board.
This exhibition project is presented by MMAM, a nonprofit art museum located on the shores of the Upper Mississippi River.
