Bonnie’s artwork in acyrlic and watercolor is inspired by nature — plant life, landscapes, and many animals. Bonnie’s appreciation of nature and art began in her early childhood as she worked beside her mother, an avid gardener, in their flower beds. “Time spent in nature, whether on the North Shore of Lake Superior or on my travels, has always inspired me to try to capture the reverence and awe I feel on canvas or paper,” she says.
Bonnie highlights the intricate details of her subjects — petals of flowers, the expression of wildlife, and birch trees throughout the seasons — and brings them to life in her art. Moose and rabbits are two of her favorite subjects to paint.
Bonnie is also an interior designer. “Art and interior design influence each other! Whether in creating color palettes, compositions, or balance I find that the approach to the projects have many similarities,” she says.
Bonnie’s work as an interior designer contributed to her interest in Art 4 Shelter. “Being an interior designer and working in this field, Art 4 Shelter seemed to be a natural fit. I understand how important home, and the sense of home, is to people,” she says. Contributing her paintings to Art 4 Shelter for five years, Bonnie hopes to connect more people to art and enhance their experience of comfort and enjoyment.
Bonnie’s art is displayed in her studio in the Casket Arts Building in Northeast Minneapolis, the Hickory Chair showroom at International Market Square, and the Aesthetic Home store in St. Paul. Her art has been exhibited in many invitational and juried shows throughout the Midwest and is included in collections throughout the United States and Europe.
Originally from La Crosse, Wisconsin, Bonnie moved to the Twin Cities when she studied at the University of Minnesota. She currently lives in Apple Valley, Minnesota.
Bonnie’s artwork may be found at www.BJFolkerts.com.
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