Beauty, Wonder, & Lobsters
Calling all lobster lovers and crustacean connoisseurs! Maine's most famous residents might be best known for their buttery flavor, but one man is inviting the world to see them through a new lens -- one of beauty, place, and connection.
This past week, Sebastian Crissey launched the Maine Lobster Museum, a ticketed virtual experience where visitors can explore seven engaging exhibits from anywhere in the world. With topics ranging from lobster biology to cultural cameos, this digital space is more than a quirky collection -- it’s a deep dive into the wonder of creation and the power of storytelling.
Why lobsters? As it turns out, they’re fascinating. Did you know that ...
lobster blood is clear,
they can regenerate lost limbs,
they smell with their legs,
& they can live for over a hundred years?
Crissey, the museum’s founder, says the exhibit he is most excited about is “Claws of Culture,” which highlights the lobster’s appearances across fashion, film, art, and literature. “The digital format allows us to bring together historic paintings, film clips, fashion pieces, and literary references,” Crissey said. “It’s a cohesive narrative about how deeply embedded the lobster is in our collective imagination.”
Crissey and his spouse, Coral, spent eight months designing and curating the museum’s content. While they currently live overseas, their Maine roots run deep -- and so does their love for the stories that connect people with place.
“Our museum creates touchpoints with potential visitors before and after their physical trips to Maine -- or even for those who may never have the opportunity to visit,” Crissey explained.
Another popular stop, “Cracking the Culinary Code,” gives guests a taste of lobster's rich culinary history, nutritional benefits, and classic recipes. It's a reminder that food tells stories -- of heritage and family tables passed down through generations.
Lobsters are a notable part of Maine’s identity. They generate thousands of jobs and bring in hundreds of millions of dollars annually. Crissey said his passion for locally sourced food and his love for his home state made this project both personal and purposeful.
And the museum isn’t static; it’s a community-powered vision that invites everyone to take part. Visitors can share lobster memories, post their favorite memes, and even contribute recipes.
Tickets are $10 for a one-day virtual pass or $20 for three days. The museum also partners with Museums for All, offering free or reduced access to those receiving federal food assistance. In collaboration with the Maine Archives and Museums and the Maine Tourism Association, the museum hopes to make cultural heritage more accessible than ever.
“For me, it’s all about bringing joy and wonder to people,” Crissey shared. “Success is creating genuine connections between people and this essential part of Maine’s identity.”
Psalm 104 says, “O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.” Whether it’s a sea creature in Maine or a moment of connection in a digital space, everything points back to a Creator who cares about beauty, meaning, and relationship.
As a church, let us be people who celebrate creativity and lean into stories. Because every story, no matter how unexpected, can lead us back to the One who wrote the greatest story of all.