Maria Sarmiento of Dunwoody-Marietta-Ellijay on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Maria Sarmiento and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Maria, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I have found immense joy in nurturing my backyard garden, a project that has transformed not just my space but also my spirit. Once a shady and stark yard, it has blossomed into a vibrant sanctuary through the labor of love and dedication. Creating terraces to maximize the space has been an ambitious endeavor, especially under the relentless summer heat. Yet, every drop of sweat has been worth it as I’ve watched the grass seeds sprout and the plants thrive.

The red Georgia clay that once dominated my yard is now a canvas of color and life. With each new flower planted and every patch of sod laid down, I feel like I’m crafting something truly magical—a secret garden that invites relaxation and inspiration. My vision is to fill this retreat with whimsical garden decor and sculptures that spark joy and wonder.

I dream of creating an oasis where visitors can escape from their daily lives, stepping into an almost otherworldly experience that fosters a deep connection with nature and themselves. It’s more than just gardening; it’s about cultivating happiness, serenity, and inspiration for anyone who wanders into this little slice of paradise. Each day spent tending to this garden reminds me of the beauty that comes from hard work—and how rewarding it is to create spaces filled with joy for both myself and others.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello, dear readers! My name is Maria Sarmiento, a proud native of Colombia now residing in the beautiful town of Ellijay, Georgia. As an artist and teacher with a deep passion for fine arts and crafts, I have had the privilege of sharing my love for creativity with individuals of all ages—from schoolchildren to college students, and even at summer camps and art centers.

My artistic journey is one that intertwines various mediums—sculpture being my primary focus. I work extensively with mixed media, incorporating elements like glass, metal, and mosaic to create pieces that resonate on a spiritual level. Each artwork serves as a sacred connection between spirit and form, inviting viewers to explore their inner energy, light, and soul.

One of my most cherished series is titled “Spiritual Awakening,” which reflects my personal quest to uncover the mysteries of our spiritual lives. It invites you to look within yourself and discover the profound essence that lies beneath the surface.

Another captivating project I am working on is the “Sacred Connections Cosmic Series.” This collection dives deep into our origins by blending history, science, and spirituality. It’s designed for those who yearn to understand our place in the cosmos—a journey that seeks to illuminate our shared relationship with space.

Lastly, through my “Element Series: A Journey Through Fire, Water, Air, and Earth,” I aim to celebrate heritage and identity. These works are not just art; they evoke a sense of belonging that reminds us all of our roots within this vast universe.

As I continue on this path of exploration through art education and creation, I invite you all to join me on this transformative journey—one where we can awaken together in understanding ourselves and each other more deeply.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
When I reflect on who taught me the most about work, my thoughts immediately turn to my dad. His life story is a testament to resilience and dedication. Losing his father as a teenager thrust him into adulthood prematurely, making him the second oldest sibling responsible for helping his mother run the farm and provide for his family. Despite these challenges, he persevered and ensured that all of his brothers went to college alongside him.

As I grew up, I watched him transform into an accomplished chief engineer at a large pipe company. His commitment was unwavering; he often worked through vacations and rarely took sick days, embodying strong work ethics and self-discipline that inspired everyone around him. His younger sister even saw him as a father figure, highlighting just how much he meant to our family.

While I admire his dedication and the values he instilled in me—pushing me to strive for excellence in school and at home—I also realize now that balance is crucial. My father’s relentless pursuit of work sometimes came at the cost of precious family moments. In hindsight, those vacation days spent working could have been better invested in creating memories together.

As we navigate our own paths in life, it’s essential to remember that while a strong work ethic is invaluable, nurturing relationships with loved ones holds equal importance. My dad’s legacy teaches us not only the value of hard work but also reminds us to cherish time spent with family—because those moments are what truly enrich our lives.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could reach back in time and speak to my younger self, I would say this: being alone is not a bad thing. In fact, it can be one of the most empowering experiences of your life. Embrace those moments of solitude, for they are opportunities to become comfortable with who you are. You are enough just as you are—there is no lack within you.

Growing up as an only child, society and family often made me feel that being alone was something to be ashamed of. The prevailing belief was that women needed to be married or partnered; if not, there must be something wrong with them. This patriarchal mindset, deeply rooted in Hispanic culture, can warp our perception of self-worth and relationships.

But today, there is a growing dialogue around these issues. We’re beginning to understand that time spent with ourselves is essential for fostering healthy relationships with others. When we learn to appreciate our own company, we reclaim our power instead of placing it in the hands of others.

So I would tell my younger self: cherish this journey of solitude! It’s a chance to explore your interests, passions, and dreams without distraction. Alone doesn’t mean lonely; it means freedom—a canvas upon which you can paint your own story. Enjoy every moment; the best parts of life often unfold when we learn to love ourselves first.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
In my journey as an artist, I am deeply committed to the belief that my work serves as a sacred connection between spirit and form. This conviction is not merely a project; it is the very essence of who I am. Each piece I create is infused with this purpose, inspiring me to explore and experiment in ways that are both exhilarating and transformative.

This commitment drives me forward, regardless of how long it takes to manifest my vision. It’s an evolving process—an exciting adventure that continuously shapes my artistic expression. I embrace this inner force as an integral part of my identity, allowing it to guide me through each brushstroke and every decision in my creative journey.

I envision this connection lasting throughout my life, constantly pushing the boundaries of what art can be. It fuels my passion and ignites a fire within me that refuses to dim. No matter the challenges or time involved, I will remain steadfast in pursuing this sacred dialogue between spirit and form, knowing that it enriches not only my work but also the lives of those who experience it.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
Are you doing what you were born to do, or are you merely following the path that others have laid out for you? This question resonates deeply with those of us who have dared to pursue our passions against the tide of societal expectations. I remember vividly when I chose fine arts as my major in high school. While my classmates were gearing up for careers in more “acceptable” fields, I faced ridicule and skepticism. Everyone told me that art was not a career and that I would starve.

Even my parents tried to dissuade me from this path, envisioning a future where I wore a white coat as a dentist rather than wielding a paintbrush. It took the support of my aunt and uncle to help convince them to let me follow my passion for art. The journey has not been easy; throughout my life, I encountered criticism from friends and even the parents of my children’s friends who questioned my choices. Society often places rigid definitions on what is considered an acceptable career, leaving little room for those of us who choose differently.

But here’s the truth: if I had chosen another path simply because it was deemed “safe,” I would have lived a lie—an existence devoid of authenticity. Instead, by embracing what truly makes me come alive, I’ve found fulfillment beyond measure. My choice may not fit into society’s conventional mold, but it is mine—and that’s what matters most.

So ask yourself: Are you living your truth? Embrace your unique journey and remember that while criticism may come from all sides, staying true to yourself is the greatest act of courage you can take. Your passion is valid; it deserves space in this world just as much as any other career choice does. Celebrate your authenticity and know that by doing what you were born to do, you’re inspiring others to do the same!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sarmientostudio.com
• Instagram: sarmientostudio
• Facebook: sarmiento studio LLC
• Youtube: Maria L Sarmiento