Swim Down: Finding Neurodivergent Identity in the Depths

Lilianna Watson
Masters degree
Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Swim Down was Lilianna’s Master’s Capstone project at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. This digital, multimodal graphic novel explores the connection between neurodiversity and the deep sea. She collaborated with Scripps scientists Dr. Charlotte Seid, Dr. Lisa Levin, Dr. Peter Franks, and illustrator Freya Hammar to tell the story of Mari, a neurodivergent teenager. Mari embarks on an imaginary deep-sea journey in which she encounters different marine wildlife and learns more about herself, the ocean, and other people. As part of her research, Lilianna visited MBARI and the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Into the Deep exhibition, and she is thrilled to share the ways that these experiences informed and inspired her Master’s project.