Name: Rob Monaghan, Darren O’Sullivan, and Dolf D’Hondt
Name of the organisation: Seabed Sanctuary
Topic discussed: “Restoring Life Below the Surface: The Vision of SeaBed Sanctuary in Bantry Bay – a Sanctuary for future generations.”
Audio – “Sound – ecoacoustic recordings….”
Summary of the interview:
Rob Monaghan, Darren O’Sullivan and Dolf D’Hondt joined Liz Montalvo to share the mission and vision behind SeaBed Sanctuary, a grassroots, not-for-profit collective working to protect and regenerate the marine environment of Bantry Bay—one of Ireland’s most ecologically rich and beloved coastal ecosystems. The initiative brings together artists, marine scientists, environmental professionals, and local citizens to tackle biodiversity loss and reimagine ocean conservation through creativity, collaboration, and science.
At the core of SeaBed Sanctuary’s efforts is the development of an underwater sculpture garden—a living reef created with eco-friendly, pH-neutral materials. These sculptures are designed to serve as artificial reefs, helping to restore marine habitats and encourage biodiversity, from algae and invertebrates to fish and marine mammals. But the Sanctuary goes far beyond art. A major component of the project is eco-acoustic monitoring: hydrophones and environmental sensors will record underwater soundscapes, salinity, and temperature to track changes in biodiversity and the impact of climate change. This blend of scientific data collection and artistic expression is a hallmark of the Sanctuary’s innovative approach.
SeaBed Sanctuary also champions sustainable tourism and community education, promoting a model of “slow tourism” that benefits local economies while respecting the natural environment. Through workshops, citizen science initiatives, and art-based community events, the project seeks to build a sense of connection and stewardship between people and the ocean. The team is working to create a live, immersive, and interactive sanctuary that nurtures both marine life and public awareness. The conversation with Rob, Darren, and Dolf revealed a powerful message: when art, science, and community come together, we can protect and restore our oceans in ways that are both innovative and deeply meaningful. And can inspire lasting environmental stewardship and foster a deeper connection between people and the Ocean for future generations.
Credits:
Rob Monaghan, visual artist and Chairperson of Seabed Sanctuary Collective
Darren O’Sullivan, Skipper with Bantry Bay Charters
Dolf D’Hondt, Bantry Lifeboat crew member, and active community member involved with Seabed Sanctuary Collective, the Save Our Sprat group, and a number of other local groups.
Music
Deep and Wide – Composed and recorded in West Cork, by Florence Humphrys
Stand for Freedom – Composed by Caz Jeffreys and recorded in West Cork with the band, Mango Moon
Root & Shoots – Composed and recorded by West Cork band, Searching For Apollo
Eco-acoustic recordings – Recordings from Marcus Maeder’s eco-acoustic research in Bantry Bay and surrounding areas
Video and photography
by Seabed Sanctuary volunteers in Bantry Bay
Audio – “Sound – ecoacoustic recordings….”
Coordinator.
Chris Gaughran
Cait
