ABOUT ME

 
 

Hi, I’m Bonnie!

Artist, Teacher, Mentor and Lover of Nature.

I live in Wisconsin with my husband and two fur babies, Dillii and Birdii. I’ve been creating since I was a little girl. It was always more fun to imagine, design and create something then actually play with the end result.

Things haven’t changed much. I still find my greatest joy in learning from nature, going on adventures and exploring new places and having new experiences.

This is an essential part of who I am and how I teach art. It’s where I get peace, stillness and restoration. 

I am captivated by the healing power of water. After experiencing major medical issues I rediscovered the work of Dr. Emoto. His research observes how water crystals form after having positive affirmations and prayer spoken to them. Water has the ability to adapt and transform to all situations; from the change of seasons to altering its course along a river. For me, water is energizing and refreshing. I feel more alive when I’m able to sit by rushing water and observe the soothing sounds of its movement. My work encompasses scenes of water and the habitat that depend on it for survival.

I enjoy working in layers as this practice is similar to my observations of nature. I begin by taking the entire scene in through my visual sensors of site, sound, smell and tactile sensations. Then I take a deep dive to observe the little details that are oftentimes overlooked. It’s like a treasure hunt, examining how nature is formed. The goal, and hopes of my work is to create a quiet reflective space for the viewer to contemplate their own journey, to quiet the mind and feel a sense of connectedness to nature and the Creator. Entering into peace and wonder as they get lost in the layers and details of the art.

Artist Statement

Paper Cutting

#papercutting

Sketching

Body, Mind and Soul realign when we slow down, take in the beauty that surrounds us as we press into to observe subtle shifts found in nature. For me, Nature has always been my greatest teacher, in life as well as artistically. Drawing from photos is great and sometimes essential but nothing stills my mind like sitting and drawing or painting from real life. My brain slows down. I get lost in observing the subtle shifts of line, light and color. Taking in relationships and space. I ask myself, How does nature address these issues?

If you want to be a Master, you must study the work of the greatest Master - that’s why I go to Nature.

Printmaking

It’s all about the process

I am interested in the exploration of the world from a macro observation to a micro inspection. Building layers of color and depth are an innate part of my practice, from my artistic development as a printmaker. Other vehicles used in my practice are photography, drawing, painting and paper cutting. The goal and hopes of my work is to create a quiet reflective space for the viewer to contemplate their own journy, to create a quiet reflective space for the viewer to contemplate their own journey, to quiet the mind and feel a sense of connectedness to the Creator, recieve peace and embrace the wonder as they get lost in the layers of detail, in the art and life. There is the miraculous hidden amongst our every day lifes, we are invited into the exploration. Are you ready to see in a new way?

Meet My Studio Assistants

Dillii

Excels at Comical Relief, Snuggles, Kisses and Snack Time.

Birdii

Excellent Protector, Stress Relief Management and Site for Details.

Testimonials

  • Bonnie's classes provide the next step for those wanting to go beyond the basics. These were wonderful classes!

    -Carolyn Stock

  • I learned so much in the Maker's Mark class! It was fascinating to learn about each art movement and I have been motivated to continue reading and learning on my own.

    -Janet H.

  • Bonnie creates an atmosphere of "no fear" for those worried about showing and learning from others. I definitely learned something new in each class and felt supported and simultaneously challenged by Bonnie. A difficult balance but easily accomplished with Bonnie's approach to teaching art.

    -Jack Bowhan