Inner Peace at the Beach

Beach Pop Up with artist Carolyn Lewerberg for Save the Harbor Save the Bay.

About this piece:

Inner Peace at the Beach was a collaborative public art experience led by Puerto Rican Boston artist and graphic designer Eileen Riestra of Depict Brands—a woman- and minority-owned creative studio—alongside public artist Carolyn Lewenberg. Inner Peace at the Beach was an interactive public art project designed to provide a meditative and healing experience by blending the natural serenity of the beach with the Japanese tradition of Zen gardening.

Recognizing the rise in mental health challenges, especially among youth, the project aimed to offer a moment of peace and reflection through creative engagement with sand. Large-scale Zen-inspired rakes allowed participants to "comb" the beach, creating patterns in the sand as a form of artistic and meditative expression. For those who preferred a more personal experience, individual mini Zen garden sand trays with small tools were provided, encouraging quiet moments of mindfulness.

By merging art, culture, and wellness, Inner Peace at the Beach transformed the shoreline into a sanctuary for relaxation and self-discovery, offering visitors a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and find a sense of inner calm.

2023 Location: Constitution Beach. East Boston, MA / Malibu Beach. Dorchester, MA / Carlson Beach