At the recent inaugural Better New Orleans Block Party in St. Roch, a captivating art installation called the “Meditation Wishing Wall and Planting Station” emerged as a symbol of hope and unity for the city. Local artists from around the city applied for the Civic Arts Challenge with the task of creating an interactive piece around the concept of a “better New Orleans”. NOLA Artist Incubator’s very own Lissie Stewart was among the three artists selected to create an interactive piece for the event.

Stewart’s vision was a garden where participants could not only reflect but also actively contribute to the future they wished to see for their community by planting seeds for a more sustainable New Orleans.

The installation invited attendees to engage in a multi-sensory experience, combining the tranquility of meditation with the tangible act of writing down wishes and planting seeds to set intentions.

The impact of Stewart’s creation was meaningful and fun for participants. The garden became a space for introspection and connection, allowing participants to express their hopes and dreams for New Orleans in a physical and communal way. As people planted their seeds and made their wishes, a sense of unity and shared purpose filled the space.

Beyond its immediate effects for the event, hosted by the Committee for a Better New Orleans, the Meditation Wishing Wall and Planting Station served as a reminder of the power of art to inspire and bring people together. The installation highlighted the importance of fostering creativity and community engagement in building a better future for New Orleans.

Stewart’s installation was not just a piece of art but a testament to the resilience and spirit of the city. It demonstrated that, by coming together and collectively envisioning a brighter tomorrow, we can plant the seeds of change that will blossom into a better New Orleans for all.