The Pony We Met is a one-of-a-kind original contemporary painting by UK artist Darci Lauren, created using mixed media on handmade paper in 2026. This colourful pony artwork was inspired by a walk I took with my partner, during which we stopped to talk to and feed a pony we encountered along the way.

The painting centres on a pony within a vibrant, abstracted landscape, surrounded by expressive marks and bold, playful colour. Painted onto blue handmade paper created by artist Ashley M Gregory, the natural blue of the paper remains visible throughout the work, becoming an important part of the composition. Neon pink, soft pink, purple and vivid green combine with the blue ground to create a bright, whimsical atmosphere.

Blending figurative painting with expressive abstraction, The Pony We Met captures the joy of an unexpected encounter in the countryside. Rather than simply documenting a landscape or animal, the work transforms a small, personal moment into a colourful contemporary artwork. The pony becomes a symbol of the simple pleasures found during everyday walks — stopping, noticing, connecting and allowing a fleeting moment to become a lasting memory.

With its bright colour palette, whimsical subject matter and expressive painterly style, this original pony painting would make a distinctive addition to a contemporary art collection, particularly for those drawn to animal art, equestrian-inspired artwork, colourful paintings and contemporary figurative art.

This A5 original artwork is sold unframed, allowing the tactile qualities of the handmade paper and painted surface to remain visible. It can be displayed as it is or professionally framed to complement individual interiors and collections.