More Than a Feature: A Reflection of Our Ethos

What stood out most in the Smithsonian coverage was how clearly it echoed our commitment to centering the human element. Flying Fish Exhibition Developer Stephanie Hanson shared, “Each section of the show was designed to mimic the real stages of an archaeological dive, from discovery to conservation.”

The goal wasn’t just accuracy—it was connection. “These experts do amazing work, and they’re so passionate,” she added. “I hope visitors feel inspired by that.”

Four replica skulls from Mysteries from the Deep, featured by Smithsonian magazine, are displayed on a blue platform, each positioned above a labeled image of its corresponding animal.

When Technology Meets Humanity

The feature also highlighted the way Mysteries from the Deep bridges hands-on experiences with digital exploration—pairing tools like a personality quiz that helps visitors discover “what kind of underwater archaeologist you might be” with tactile interactives designed for broad accessibility.

The exhibition showcases a range of discoveries, including the Clotilda through 3D scans and visual media, the ancient Alpena-Amberley Ridge site revealed using AI, and the Hoyo Negro caves of Mexico, represented by replica remains of extinct species. Each case study offers more than just information; it invites empathy and imagination.

Guest Curator Megan Lickliter-Mundon, who contributed her expertise on wartime wrecks such as the Tulsamerican B-24 bomber, underscored the discipline behind the drama. “Conservation has to occur with every single item that’s brought out from underwater because they’re all affected by saltwater,” she explained. Her insight, grounded in lived experience, exemplifies the kind of authentic voices we’re proud to platform.

Several people observe a preserved marine animal specimen displayed in a glass case at the Mysteries from the Deep exhibition, featured by The Smithsonian, in a science or natural history museum. Particularly, the Intrepid Museum.

What Recognition Like This Means

As Intrepid Museum President Susan Marenoff-Zausner told Smithsonian magazine, “Mysteries from the Deep is about more than just artifacts. It’s about people, divers, archaeologists, families, ancestors, and communities, all working to preserve legacies and illuminate history from the depths.”

At Flying Fish, we’ve always rooted our work in thoughtful design, accessibility, and meaningful storytelling. So when a respected voice like Smithsonian takes notice, not just of the final product, but of the thinking and care behind it, it’s a welcome affirmation that our approach is resonating.

This kind of recognition isn’t about the spotlight; it’s about alignment. When elements like our bilingual design and tactile interactives—such as the replica skulls from Hoyo Negro, the submerged Late Pleistocene cave systems in the Yucatan Peninsula —are called out, it reinforces that Universal Design isn’t an add-on for us; it’s a foundation.

A young man with a backpack sits on a bench in the Intrepid Museum’s Mysteries from the Deep exhibition, featured by The Smithsonian, listening to audio on headphones while looking to his right. Other visitors view displays in the background.

Coverage like this reminds us why it matters to stay true to our principles. We don’t design for accolades, we design for impact. But it’s deeply encouraging to see that work acknowledged, understood, and valued.

We’ve carried these same principles forward into our latest premieres – Artemis Adventure with LEGO® Bricks and Stardust: The Universe in You – and will continue to build on them with the highly anticipated premiere of Finding Titanic: The Secret Mission and beyond.

Mysteries From the Deep: Exploring Underwater Archaeology, a traveling exhibition co-produced by Flying Fish and the Intrepid Museum, is on view at the museum through January 11th, 2026.

For Museums. By Museums.