Martin Aquatic Design & Engineering, a world-class aquatic firm, has named themed entertainment industry veteran Chris Grap as creative director, increasing the company’s capabilities in thematic storytelling.
Grap is a blooloop 50 influencer and a member of the TEA Eastern North American board. He brings vast experience in experiential design, and formerly served at Mall of America following a career in film production.
Josh Martin, president and creative director, Martin Aquatic, says: “Chris brings an invaluable perspective to Martin Aquatic, strengthening our ability to create immersive, story-driven aquatic environments that captivate guests and elevate experiences.
“His expertise in themed entertainment and creative development allows us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in designing Aquatic Leisure Destinations—transforming waterparks and beyond into fully realized worlds.
“By adding Chris as another creative director on board, we’re expanding our ability to craft narratives, shape destinations and deliver unforgettable moments that transport guests into new realms of adventure.”
Redefining aquatic destinations
Before joining Martin Aquatic, Grap served as vice president of experiential and entertainment at Mall of America, where he produced over 350 large-scale events each year.
See also: Chris Grap on Mall of America, retailtainment and creativity
His innovative concepts redefined “retailtainment” and helped bring millions of visitors to the US’s biggest retail and entertainment destination. Using the Mall’s collaborations with several IP brands, Grap created major attractions for Nickelodeon Universe and immersive attraction overlays for seasonal campaigns.
Grap recently led the creative development for Mall of America’s proposed Mystery Cove water park. This adventurous indoor concept incorporates unique moments of discovery into its rides and attractions. Martin Aquatic assisted in the conceptual and schematic design phases as further funding was sought for the project.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by the challenge of redefining what’s possible—whether that was transforming how people experience a retail space at Mall of America or now, reimagining the future of aquatic leisure destinations,” says Grap.
“What excites me about this opportunity is the chance to help move the industry forward, to push beyond the expected and create experiences that immerse, inspire and transport people into entirely new worlds.
“Having collaborated with Martin Aquatic, I know firsthand the passion and dynamic thinking their team brings to each project. Together, through bold ideas and creative collaboration, we’ll shape the future of aquatic experiences in ways that haven’t been seen before.”
“Limitless opportunity”
Grap is a renowned leader in the themed entertainment sector and has been involved with organisations, such as the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) throughout his career.
His professional network spans the entire entertainment community, and he has been a speaker at numerous conferences for trade groups such as IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry.
Grap was named a blooloop Top 50 Theme Park Influencer in 2022, recognising his contribution to innovation and creativity within the sector.
Grap joins Martin Aquatic as the company expands its creative capabilities and is working on conceptual projects such as Mystery Cove and a water park design for Hasbro. This project was revealed at IAAPA Expo 2024, and features the toy and game company’s beloved brands, such as Nerf, Transformers, Saban’s Power Rangers, and My Little Pony.
With the ongoing evolution of destinations, Martin Aquatic is focused on integrating thematic storytelling into its designs for its client base, which ranges from cruise ships to resort destinations.
Josh Martin adds: “As theming within location-based entertainment transitions from a ‘surprise’ to an ‘expectation’ for many guests, we’re seeing high demand paired with limitless opportunity for future aquatic developments.
“Bringing Chris’ talents to our team is a big win for Martin Aquatic.”
Martin Aquatic recently celebrated success at the World Waterpark Association Annual Conference, where the team behind Category 6, the waterpark onboard Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, was presented a Leading Edge Award.
