Art is more than expression—it is a prophetic act, a bridge between what is and what could be.
In this conversation, Esther shares how Creativity has been her sanctuary and calling, especially in times of uncertainty.
Returning to Ukraine during wartime, she found herself on a new battlefield—one of culture and identity—where preserving beauty became an act of resistance. Instead of painting despair, she chose to create visions of hope, resilience, and the sacred essence of her homeland.
Now, as she steps into motherhood, Esther feels a profound shift—an urgency to create with purpose, to embrace the present rather than wait for perfect conditions.
She speaks to the prophetic nature of art, how it has foreshadowed both personal and national events, and how true creativity requires surrender—trusting the brushstroke, trusting life, and trusting the unseen.
Her commitment to impact extends beyond the canvas, as she dedicates part of her work to supporting Ukraine’s orphan crisis. Through all of this, she carries a question in her heart:
“If not for this time you became a queen, then for what?”
It is a call to each of us—to step into our purpose, to create with courage, and to trust that even in uncertainty, something sacred is waiting to emerge.
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In this episode, we explore:
- Art as a mirror of life—how shifting from structure to abstraction reflected Esther’s own uncertainties.
- Trusting the process—allowing creativity to unfold without control.
- The prophetic nature of art—how paintings often reveal what the artist doesn’t yet understand.
- Returning to Ukraine—why Esther chose to move back during the war and how it shaped her artistic purpose.
- Artists as cultural guardians—how creativity preserves identity and why it is often the first thing attacked in times of conflict.
- The story of Queen Esther—why the question “If not for this time you became a queen, then for what?” fuels her sense of calling.
- Supporting Ukrainian orphans—how Esther’s new collection will help fund foster-style homes for children in need.
The Guided Visualization
Inspired by Esther’s inner soul temple to Creativity, step into a sacred space where creativity and divinity merge—a grand ballroom bathed in golden light, overflowing with flowers, music, and the whispers of inspiration.
Here, you are guided beyond fear into the heart of your artistic calling, where visions of resilience, beauty, and possibility take form. In this temple of creation, you are fully seen, fully known, and reminded that your art is a bridge between the unseen and the world waiting to receive it.
Connect with Esther Franchuk:
- Website: https://estherfranchuk.com
- Blossom Cottage Orphanage LINK HERE.
- Instagram: @Esther_franchuk
Connect with Carrie Schmitt:
- Instagram: @carrieschmitt
- Join Carrie’s online art class + community HERE.
- Subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode.
It’s’ a Podcast Party! Like a book club, but we discuss themes from the podcast instead!
Sunday, April 6th at 4pm PST / 7pm EST.
Get the Zoom link HERE.
✨ Share your answers! Use @carrieschmitt on Instagram, leave me a voicemail, or email me here.
Reflection Questions for Listeners:
🔹 Trust & Creativity: Where in your creative process (or life) do you try to control the outcome? How might surrendering open new possibilities?
🔹 Abstract as a Metaphor: Have you ever noticed your creative work shifting alongside an internal transformation?
🔹 Prophetic Vision: Has something you created ever carried deeper meaning than you realized at the time? What do artists see that others may not?
🔹 Reoccurring Imagery: Horses are an important symbol in Esther’s life. Do you have a symbol that is threaded throughout your life that offers you guidance and inspiration?
🔹 Art & Culture: “The first thing an enemy destroys is culture.” Why is art such a powerful force in shaping identity and resilience?
🔹 Sacred Encounters: Have you ever experienced a moment where a stranger or unexpected experience gave you exactly the message you needed? How did it shift your perspective?
🔹 Your Esther Moment: Where in your life are you being called to step forward in courage? What would it look like to trust that you are here for such a time as this?
