Shirley was born and raised in California, married, had two sons, and spent 37 years of service to the federal government. She lived in the community of Citrus Heights in northern California for over 40 years.

While raising a family, enjoying a career, and showing dogs, not much time was available for serious artwork. However, upon retirement from the government in 2000, time was available to catch up! Needing more space, she bought a new house with a room especially for her artwork. Mostly a graphite artist, thereby developing drawing skills, she needed to use color. Trying several mediums, she honed her skills using colored pencils, oils, and pastels. Her favorite is colored pencils, where she can sit by the fire and enjoy a good movie while doing her artwork.

Completely self-taught, Shirley loves to capture the movement and spirit of the beautiful and feisty Arabian, but equally enjoys portraying the strength and character of the gentle draft horse. She has since developed her skills to include many animals, human portraits, and even a landscape or two!

Competition in art shows is very inspiring and encourages an artist to strive to do better. Shirley has been juried into many equine art shows, including the American Academy of Equine Art (AAEA) fall show, and has enjoyed first placements in other prestigious shows as the Western States Horse Expo and Draft Horse Classic art show. In 2006, Shirley's painting "Vizquel," was chosen as People's Choice at the AAEA show at the Kentucky Horse Park. She was also recently awarded a magazine cover by Horses in Art, and her painting "Shire Showtime" was chosen as the theme for the 2008 Draft Horse Classic! As a member of the Placer Arts League and Placerville Arts Association, she has had many award placements in shows, including People's Choice awards and a Best of Show.

Now a grandmother of three boys, Shirley lives in Pollock Pines, California.