Hi, I'm Vonnie.

Cogbeetle is all about creative journeys; my passion for art, nature and bicycle journeys.

I have a studio at Westbury Arts Centre in Milton Keynes. My current print-making work is about the experiences I have had on journeys through the places I go in my day-to-day life. I’m very much inspired by the physical space I occupy and the changes in form and space that I see and experience each time I run or ride my bike; whether it’s past hedgerows or in more built-up urban areas. I have a profound respect for the natural world and for its conservation.

I work in projects and explore different topics in series. I have always loved Japanese woodblock prints and artforms where the artist's intention emerges through the manipulation of process and technique. I am very much influenced by the Japanese woodblock print artist's gestural and compositional narrative that leads the viewer on their own journey. Without being too literal, I want my audience to come ‘through the window’ into my world and enjoy the visual impact of colour and contrast. I enjoy the interplay between the story in the image and the nature of the material used to create it; and I explore this in my work by combining different techniques and media.

As well as practicing various forms of art, I have an interest in encouraging others to do it too! My journey is my destination; that time when I'm pushing and pulling a piece of artwork or pushing and pulling pedals. Journeys and processes are what we remember most about experiences and I believe that learning anything new should be about enjoying the landmarks along the way as well as the final results.

I completed a BA(Hons) in Fine Art and Art History at Birmingham School of Art in 1993 and went on to complete a Masters degree in Art & Design Education at De Montfort University in Leicester in 2001. I am also CTLLS (Adult Education teaching) qualified (2007). I have worked and taught in Higher and Further education for most of my career; in distance learning, online learning and adult education. 

This website is about my art and what inspires me. You can also visit my Cogbeetle Facebook page.