Meet Gordana Milivojcevic | art as a lifestyle

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gordana Milivojcevic and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gordana, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My mindset behind starting my own business was rooted in a deep desire to share my art with the world in a meaningful way. Creating art has always been a way for me to connect with something higher, to express emotions and stories that words often can’t capture. Starting my own business has given me the freedom to stay true to my vision, to create from my heart, and to build a space where others can experience the same sense of beauty, reflection, and inspiration through my work.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is deeply rooted in emotion, intuition, and spiritual connection. I don’t just paint what I see – I paint what I feel, what I dream, and what flows through me in moments of silence. Every piece I create carries a vibration, an energy that speaks louder than words. I believe that this is what sets my work apart – it’s not just visual, it’s also soulful. I often hear from people that my art gives them a sense of peace, healing, or recognizing something sacred within themselves, and that’s the greatest gift I could ask for.
Getting to where I am professionally today has not been easy. There have been many moments of doubt, financial insecurity, and feelings of misunderstanding in a world that often values ​​speed over depth. But art has always been my truth – that’s why I kept going. I’ve overcome challenges by relying on faith, listening to my inner guidance, and remaining open to unexpected opportunities. I have learned that vulnerability is strength, that it is okay to take the path less traveled, and that consistency grounded in authenticity will always take you beyond fast-paced trends.
What I want the world to know is this: My art is an invitation. It is an invitation to slow down, to feel, to remember who we really are, beyond the noise. My story is one of resilience, transformation, and trust in the invisible—and through each stroke of my brush, I hope to share a little light. I am the winner of the Tesla Award for art, pedagogical work and a special form of communication. The Tesla Science Foundation from Philadelphia values ​​my work and gives me motivation to continue. I paint with oil and acrylic on canvas, I do murals on the walls of restaurants, houses, I paint shoes, clothes, furniture. I have had exhibitions of my art paintings in a gallery in Toronto, in a gallery in Moscow, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Serbia, in many cities in America: Miami, New York, Washington, Chicago Cultural Center, Cleveland, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Milwaukee, Maryville…

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I would plan a mix of inspiration, nature, beauty, and soulful fun — something that touches the senses and the heart.
Day 1 – Getting to the Ocean
We would start with a leisurely morning walk on the beach — barefoot in the sand, breathing in the ocean air. Then we would have breakfast at a cozy beach cafe with a freshly squeezed juice and something tropical. In the evening, we would go to a rooftop overlooking the water for sunset cocktails and light bites.
Day 2 – Art and Soul
A full day immersed in art: we would visit local galleries and art collectives, perhaps visiting Wynwood Walls – Miami, or an area known for its murals and creative spaces. I would show them the places that inspire me — hidden corners where art lives in unexpected ways. In the evening, we would go somewhere with live music and a relaxed, soulful atmosphere.
Day 3 – Escape to Nature
A day trip to a nearby botanical garden, nature reserve, or quiet beach where we could picnic, sketch, meditate, and simply be at peace. Dinner would be somewhere with healthy, delicious food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Day 4 – Culture and Community
We would explore the cultural side of the city – museums, historic districts, and maybe a spiritual or wellness event in the evening, like a sound healing or moonwalk. I would introduce them to some of the kindest, most creative, and mindful souls I have met here.
Day 5 – Markets and Magic
A morning at a local market or craft fair – tasting, shopping, meeting people. The afternoon would be free to relax or walk. In the evening, maybe an outdoor art event, dancing under the stars, or a poetry reading – something spontaneous and full of feeling.
Day 6 – My Art World
I would invite them into my world – my studio or creative space. We would paint together, talk about life, drink tea, listen to music, maybe even collaborate on something fun. Dinner would be homemade or at a charming local place that feels like family.
Day 7 – Farewell by the Sea
A visit to the ocean at dawn to say goodbye. Journaling, sharing dreams, maybe writing intentions in the sand. A relaxed brunch to end the trip and seal the memories.
The most beautiful thing about this city, for me, is its contrasts – the vibrant energy and the deep peace, the ocean and the art, the people creating and connecting. I would want my friend to leave feeling more alive, inspired, and reconnected – with themselves and the world.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely—there are so many people and influences that have shaped my journey. First and foremost, I’d love to dedicate this shoutout to my family and close friends who always believed in me, even when I doubted myself. Their unwavering support gave me the courage to keep creating and stay authentic in my work. I also want to recognize my art mentors and the spiritual teachers whose wisdom helped me see my creative path as a calling, not just a career. Books like The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron deeply inspired me to trust the process and honor the connection between creativity and healing. Every person who has ever encouraged me, visited my exhibitions, or simply said, “Your art moved me”—they all deserve a place in this story. I wouldn’t be here without that collective support. I am grateful to my professors for their support and motivation. I was an art teacher at school in Serbia, I had the opportunity to support my students and they were my motivation.

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Image Credits
I am the author.
Gordana Milivojcevic