CoVivid Sydney

"Co-Vivid Sydney" Quite a colourful, kooky and satirical watercolour from me this time. This painting was a cathartic process for me during some very serene early morning painting sessions to lighten the mood of the pandemic lockdown.

I wanted to create an artwork that was a visual reminder for myself and my children of what will no doubt be a key feature in world history where the majority of the world was in lockdown.

As always with my work, horses also play a symbolic role in this artwork. The beauty of the foreground scene with a combination of Australian Eucalypts and Asian orchids in a midst of calming rainforest plants. This is to depict the serenity and safeness that many felt in their own homes with their families at the time and the global scale of which nearly all families experienced a lockdown of some description. In the middle ground of the background we see the 'Gangsta' (as my son described him!) pelican who is representative of the extraordinary political commentary and ruling occurring worldwide and the little seagull sitting before him looking lost but completely in need of guidance. In the background we have the beautiful Sydney Opera House and the historic lighting that lines the streets of The Rocks. Regardless of the ghost town that Sydney was at many times throughout Lockdown, perhaps it was more beautiful than ever.

For so many, the Covid-19 pandemic has had huge financial and health consequences. In many cases devastating. However, this artwork's intention was to reflect on the calmness and quietness of the time. The irony of the crass Vivid Sydney hot pink background to juxtapose the quiet of families uniting at home. The time was so sweet for many who were forced together with their family, forced to step back in the quietness of their own homes and reflect on their selves, lives, loved ones and future choices. Perhaps the home-grown sweet strawberries hanging from above are really the most symbolic of all? I hope you enjoy.

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Belinda Baynes is a Sydney-based artist and designer, creating expressive contemporary works inspired by horses, fashion, and the Australian landscape.

With a background in fashion and textile design, her work brings a distinctive perspective to equestrian art—blending movement, softness, and detail with a more modern, lifestyle-led aesthetic. Horses often sit alongside florals, feminine figures, and layered environments, resulting in pieces that feel both grounded and emotive.

Working primarily in watercolour and mixed media, Belinda is drawn to fluidity and gesture. Her paintings explore connection—between horse and rider, figure and landscape, and the quiet, often overlooked moments that exist in between.

Based in Kenthurst on the outskirts of Sydney, the surrounding countryside plays a strong role in her work. The colours, light, and openness of the Australian landscape are reflected through expressive brushwork and a considered use of tone.

Belinda’s work has been exhibited across Australia and purchased Australia-wide and Internationally. Through her brand Pony & Belle, she continues to expand her practice across original artworks, limited edition prints, and design-led collections.

Her work offers a softer, contemporary interpretation of equestrian art—designed to sit naturally within modern interiors while still carrying a sense of story and emotion.

Visit https://www.ponyandbelle.com.au/