Trudy is an internationally known teacher, and the author of more than two dozen decorative painting books and numerous painting packets. She has written articles and columns for numerous magazines, and is a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the Decorative Artists’ Workbook. In addition, her work is featured in "The Best of Decorative Painting" and the Decorative Arts Collection's new book for 2004: "Roses".In 2005, Trudy's "snowies" will be featured in a North Light book entitled "Snowmen & Santas".

An active member of the Society of Decorative Painters, Trudy has taught at every national SDP convention since 1983. She served the Society as a member of the Board of Directors of the Society and of the Decorative Arts Collection. She has been a member of several committees, including the Business, Chapters, Awards, and Nominating committees. As chairperson of the Business Committee, Trudy conceived and designed the first membership survey for the Society. Trudy also holds membership in the Society of Creative Designers.

Trudy has many years of formal training in both Fine Art and Commercial Art.

She attended the University of New Orleans, majoring in Sociology and Criminology.

She has earned the Certified Decorative Artists designation from the Society of Decorative Painters, and has passed the Master Floral portion of the prestigious Master Decorative Artists program.

Trudy’s designs and unique color palette are inspired by the world around her, and in particular, her garden. Her designs include romantic florals, rustic garden settings, birds and nests, serene landscapes, whimsical snow people, teddy bears, bewitching witches, and much more.