In this inspiring conversation, watercolor artist
shares her journey of integration—bringing together her analytical corporate background with her creative artistic expression to create a unique offering called the "Embodied Vision Portal." With remarkable vulnerability, she reveals how she combines mindfulness practices with live art creation to help people and organizations anchor their visions in tangible form. Maria's approach to balancing structure with creative flow offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking to bring their unique gifts forward while honoring their full selves.Maria illuminates how trusting the creative process—including embracing the "ugly phase" that's inevitable in both art and business—has transformed her relationship with fear and resistance. Her thoughtful reflections on art as energy work and the importance of creating sacred spaces provide a fresh perspective on how visual expression can serve as a powerful tool for transformation, both personally and collectively.
Show Notes:
[00:00] - Maria's Business Journey
Background integrating analytical and creative sides
Transition from corporate work to artistic expression
Development of the watercolor art practice
[05:30] - The Artistic Medium & Process
Why watercolor became her preferred medium
The power of art's unpredictability
How art connects to her deeper purpose
[10:00] - The Embodied Vision Portal
Combining mindfulness and live art creation
Helping others anchor their visions
The process of channeling collective energy into visual form
[15:00] - Working with Fear and Trust
Navigating the "ugly phase" in art and business
Building trust in the creative process
Learning to work with imperfection
[22:00] - Art as Energy Work
How art affects our feelings and environment
The connection between spirituality and creativity
Creating spaces that support meaningful work
[31:00] - The Creative Process
How visions unfold during live art sessions
The balance between structure and flow
Moving from initial concept to finished piece
[33:00] - Business Challenges and Growth
Navigating the transition from corporate work
Overcoming resistance to marketing and sales
Reconnecting with purpose to move through fear
[42:00] - Creative Rituals and Practices
Protecting studio time through calendar blocking
Creating rituals that support artistic flow
Balancing structure and flexibility
Key Quotes:
"Art is kind of like a feeling in form. That's why, you know, when you're sad, you listen to sad music... or uplifting music and vice versa." - Maria Gehrke
"When you purchase a piece of art or when you hang a piece of art, you're not just connecting to that feeling or the image that's on there, you're connecting to the artist." - Maria Gehrke
"It's important that we work with art that doesn't uplift us. Because realistically, we need to feel all the feelings, not just happy feelings." - Maria Gehrke
"I want to uplift and I want to supercharge the people that want to make a difference in the world... because I feel that's something that we need right now in the world is not this dystopian fear everywhere. We need a beautiful vision that we can work towards." - Maria Gehrke
Resources Mentioned:
Solarpunk - An artistic movement focusing on positive environmental futures
Start With Why by Simon Sinek
Fearless Living Academy by Leo Babauta
Sacred Business Planning Challenge (available in The Sacred Growth Club)
Where to Find Maria:
Website: https://livelovemaria.com/
If Maria's approach to bringing vision to life through art resonates with you, we invite you to join us in The Sacred Business Network.
As Maria shared, finding ways to anchor your vision and create supportive practices can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Our network provides monthly Connection Circles, embodiment practices, and opportunities to form genuine relationships with other heart-centered business owners who understand that everything is connected.
Thank you to everyone who tuned into Episode 04 of Sacred Business Stories with
and your hosts, and .P.S. You can read all previous editions of the newsletter here, and you can upgrade your subscription here.
What’s next?
Carolina and I are ready to support you in creating a business that aligns with your heart's calling. Here's how we can help:
Discover Your Sacred Business Alignment (Free): Take the Harmony Map Assessment and read our Sacred Business Manifesto to understand where you are on your path and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs wanting to understand how everything in their business connects.
Read the Sacred Business Manifesto (Free): Learn the core principles of building a Sacred Business through our founding story and framework. See how we transformed our approach to business by understanding that everything is connected.
Sacred Business Network: Connect with heart-centered entrepreneurs who understand that success comes from alignment. Monthly connection circles, community workshops, and ongoing support through our private community space. Get the encouragement and collaboration you need to grow.
Join Our Next Implementation Challenges: Action-focused programs like the Sacred Business Planning Rituals Challenge and Substack Growth Challenge help you create real momentum in specific areas of your business. Free for Club members, discounted for Network members. Be sure you are subscribed to be notified when the next one is offered live.
Sacred Growth Club: A complete support system with weekly embodiment classes, live coaching calls, writing circles, and expert workshops. Designed for entrepreneurs ready to build sustainable success through proven practices while staying connected to their purpose. Includes full access to the Network and all challenges.
Be The Flow Coaching (1:1): Personal guidance combining strategic business planning with energy alignment work. Weekly coaching sessions plus full access to Sacred Growth Club benefits. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking deep transformation and sustainable growth in their business.
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