Artist Bio

As if 'art' were my middle name. It's not. But let's imagine it is for a moment - indulge me.

I grew up in wild Ngunnawal country, free to roam. But taking the Australian bush and my creative freedom for granted, I left to seek a fortune in a science career. So, on the side to my Creative Arts Degree in Wollongong, I polished off a Science Degree with Honours and worked as a Visual Neuroscience researcher, for a few years and some other roles around the globe (Curriculum Vitae attached). Having earned enough money to take a break from the rat race, I'm now returning to my passion for the Australian Bush. In this deep dive into plein air (open air) impressionist landscape painting, I literally explore Australian landscapes, from the saddle (of my mountain bike), with paintbrush in hand.

Every day I pay respect to Australia's First Nations people as traditional owners of the land on which I paint.

When I'm in the wilderness, painting, I'm completely alive, in the moment. Being in the Australian bush is deeply relaxing, but also challenging and incredibly exciting, all at the same time. Every time I paint I notice something new about Australian plants, always eye opening! In these paintings I'm living in the colours, the sound of birds, the frogs, the feel of the air, the heat wave or soft winter rain, the elevation of the mountain I've climbed, its never so real as this. Sometimes my kids come with me to paint together. 

My first solo exhibition (December 2024 at the Australian National Botanical Gardens) titled 'In the moment', was a mountain of fun. But then in my second exhibition 'Circumnavigating 'Bush Capital' from the (bike) saddle' I revealed my mode of transport and the truth of my greatest fear - to fail at painting! (Yes it, is just paint, what is to be afraid of, but what if we don't paint well enough to save Australia's bush Cherishing identity?) ABC news grabbed the story and I suddenly found myself on ABC TV as well as ABC's Facebook feed. What will happen next on this adventure?

So, let's pretend that 'art' is my middle name, just for a moment and I hope you enjoy the journey as much as I do.

In the Weather A solo art exhibition of 'plein air' landscapes

Painting in the weather whatever the weather, Sophie ‘art’ Baker softly tests the edges of our horizons.

Opening night Friday 22 May 6 pm - 8 pm

The Front, Gallery and Cafe

1/84 Wattle St, Lyneham ACT 2602

🎟️ Free entry - RSVP encouraged: TICKETS. Includes free drinks & nibbles.