Dr Beattie undertook her arts education at Reigate Art School, BA Open University, MA Goldsmiths College of London University and her doctorate (PhD) at the University of the Arts, London (old Central St Martins).

Influences upon her include domestically sourced objects, creation of work through the passage of physical material making and conceptual irony and Surrealism. Having taught for 30 years Ronn finished her lecturing career as Director of a Fine Art Foundation Course in Bahrain.

On returning to the UK in 2010, she moved to Cornwall.

Beattie carries out portrait commissions in various materials, including 'negatives' in cast lead crystal glass.