Calypso – Genesis exhibition at Port Vauban

Through a selection of unpublished photographs discovered by Johann Naldi, Frédéric Dumas’ handwritten archives and creations by Stéphane Gamelin, the exhibition retraces the transformation of a former minesweeper into Commander Cousteau’s iconic oceanographic vessel.

The exhibition highlights the key role played by Antibes and Port Vauban in this major maritime adventure. It was in the port’s shipyard that the Calypso was transformed in 1950 before becoming a universal symbol of exploration, science and freedom.

Spread across two locations, the exhibition will feature a large-format outdoor photographic gallery beneath the arches of the Old Port quay at Port Vauban, visible day and night. A second section will be presented at the Antibes Media Library with original prints, collectors’ items, models, historical plans and archival documents.

Designed as a dialogue between maritime heritage, local memory and contemporary creation, Calypso – Genesis pays tribute to the craftsmen, divers, sailors and technicians who helped shape this maritime legend.