Join us on a journey as we explore her artistic odyssey, her love for creativity, and her remarkable path to becoming a renowned artist.

Art has a unique way of communicating with individuals, and for Belinda Fourie, the dialogue is nothing less than enchanting.

Belinda Fourie, the talented artist behind Art-by-Belinda, is set to grace the upcoming Droombos Kuns-Inni-Bos event on Saturday, October 28, 2023. This picturesque gathering will take place just outside Tergniet, nestled between the idyllic Groot- and Kleinbrak rivers.

“I was born in March 1962, a time when children freely roamed streets and open fields, relying on imagination to fill the void of the unattainable. I used to see figures and patterns in almost everything, creating my own imaginary tales. Creative thinking and expression were inherently a part of me,” Belinda reminisces.

Her artistic journey took flight in the 1980s when a friend introduced her to watercolor painting classes. It was in this world of flowing paint and controlled intricacies that Belinda fell in love with the art of painting. “I was hooked, and I diligently worked through numerous art books, absorbing lessons and insights. I even exhibited some of my work at a local church hall and was elated when one of my paintings found a new home. However, life took its twists and turns, and I eventually transitioned to a full-time career in sales,” she recounts.

But life’s path was not without its share of hardships. The loss of her mother to kidney failure was a heart-wrenching experience. Painting became a source of solace and healing during this trying period. Afterward, Belinda pursued further studies and ventured into establishing her own business in Mossel Bay, a charming coastal town that provides a safe haven for children to grow in a countryside setting. Regrettably, her business aspirations did not come to fruition.

She returned to a career in sales, which was punctuated by personal challenges, including the theft of her laptop containing years of office work and cherished property photos. Her vehicle was also tragically written off by drug addicts, causing her real estate career to come to an abrupt halt.

Belinda’s life took yet another unexpected turn when she realized it was time to be with her father after her mother’s passing. It was during this time that she rediscovered her passion for painting, with her father watching her work, providing guidance and encouragement. Joining oil painting classes added a social highlight to her life and enriched her skills.

Following her father’s passing, her aunt’s battle with cancer necessitated another journey through hospital stays. Painting remained her constant companion during these challenging times, and it eventually led to her work catching the eye of visitors, resulting in commissioned pieces.

Belinda’s artistic journey took another significant turn when she began displaying her work on the streets of Mossel Bay. Her captivating creations drew visitors and led to several sales. She extended her art exhibitions to marketplaces in George and showcased her work at Palette and Taste in Great Brak River during the festival season. Her art also graced the walls of Studio 46 Art Gallery in Table View. People began commissioning her to paint scenes of the area itself.

A much-needed holiday in Australia with her brothers from September 2022 to March 2023 provided Belinda with the opportunity to create more artwork. These new pieces are currently being promoted and marketed on Instagram and Facebook.

Belinda has now settled back in Mossel Bay, her hometown, and she is excited to create a new collection inspired by the place she loves. “Trusting God’s hand in all and everything I do,” she says.

Belinda is looking forward to meeting art enthusiasts at the Droombos Kuns-Inni-Bos event and showcasing her work. She is also open to discussing special commissions. “I am also delighted to have a dedicated art page where you can view my paintings, follow the stages from start to finish of my latest creations, and even purchase a one-of-a-kind artwork,” she adds. [Click here for page.]

Kuns-Inni-Bos will take place on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 10:00 to 15:00. Admission is free, and visitors can also explore Droombos’ farm market, offering fresh vegetables, pastries, and other produce every Saturday from 08:00.

For further information, interested parties can contact Leone at 0823336479.

This event’s first ten authors’ spot fee is generously supported by Cordis Trust, and Cinematic Travel SA serves as the media partner.