MARBLEHEAD — Ellen Epstein likes seeing people’s energy shift when they explore her sculptures. Every sculpture has a different feel, and people are inspired by the pieces that they feel drawn to.
“Sometimes, I call them beacons of life because they really shine,” she said.
Epstein was not planning on doing art, but color was one of her passions. A friend suggested that she should start creating earrings because she knew of her love for color. This was a catalyst for her artistic endeavors.
“She taught me how to do basic stained glass, and I was guided to do these pyramids. I love to create things that make people feel good,” she said.
Epstein said that when she is in her house, there is an inaudible voice that she hears within herself that is leading her to build these pieces.
“I have never designed any of my sculptures; I do them by hand—they are all guided to me,” she said. “To me, that’s why these are extra unique. It’s not my power, I’m just the vessel.”
The pyramids can be used to meditate with, have in the garden, or as memorials for someone who has passed away.
“The pyramids create what’s called a co-hearing field, so when people sit in them or lie in them, you feel more relaxed. They calm the nervous system, both because of the shapes and the colors,” she said.
For Epstein, the rewarding part is when she sees how people’s energy shifts when they explore the pyramids and sculptures that resonate with them. The feeling of knowing that people have the pyramids in their business for other people to see, she said, makes her very happy.
“Each of her sculptures carries its own unique signature…the pyramid in my office, ‘Spontaneous Healing,’ [and] the sculpture in our anatomy classroom, ‘World Teacher.’ They feel like conduits between the seen and unseen worlds,’’ said Cathryn Schoenfarber at Spirit Wellness Institute.
Schoenfarber characterized the pyramid as creating: “an immediate visceral shift toward well-being.’’ She said students who struggle or feel overwhelmed often sit beneath the pyramid for a moment of beautiful respite — a chance to recalibrate to what they are offering others with a true homecoming within their bodies and beings.
“Having these sculptures around me reminds me of her love and support. They remind me that I am always deeply connected to the divine, and they help elevate the energy of the school itself…something that nearly everyone who walks through our doors comments on,’’ Schoenfarber said.
Epstein’s desire is for more sculptures and pyramids to come out into the world by reaching more people because she feels it brings more joy and balance to people’s everyday lives. Every piece is created with positive energy by copper tubes, stained glass from around the world, and a variety of other materials.
“They have a life energy to them because of the colors or shapes,” Epstein said.
In addition to being an artist, Epstein is a licensed social worker and has accomplished long-distance triathlons, and has even done the Hawaiian Ironman race.
Epstein welcomes visitors of all ages to schedule free time in the garden, located at 122 B Green St in Marblehead, to explore the sculptures, relax, and enjoy creative activities for up to an hour. For bookings, information, and updates, visitors can explore Epstein’s website: marbleheadsculptures.com.
Julia Rockler is a student at Endicott College studying journalism.
This story is written in partnership with the Massachusetts News Service.
