Deborah Stroud

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Deborah Stroud, an artist from East Tennessee, has been captivated by the beauty of Fripp Island since she and her husband, Bob, began vacationing there in 2006. They became part-time residents in 2016, cherishing the low country lifestyle and the wonderful family memories and friendships they've cultivated on the island. It truly is their happy place.

Deborah's artistic journey began with crafts, including painting birdhouses and creating a ceramic Christmas village. She soon ventured into canvas painting, where a pivotal moment occurred when a real estate client, an accomplished artist, took her under her wing. Under June Hodge’s guidance, Deborah received weekly lessons for a year, learning to mix colors, plan compositions, and layer her work. This mentorship culminated in her first oil painting of the English countryside, followed by several smaller pieces. However, as life became busy with family and career, she took a break from painting.
A decade later, her husband signed them up for a Bob Ross class taught by Rick LeBeau, reigniting her passion for painting. Deborah eagerly participated in monthly classes, often accompanied by her daughter, Ashley. Soon, other family members, including her mother, sister, and cousin, joined in, and they advanced to Rick’s intermediate classes in Newport, TN, until the classes were paused in 2020.

During the pandemic, Deborah joined an online paint club focused on acrylic fun art, working on both canvas and wood. While she prefers oil painting, this experience allowed her to continue creating during challenging times.
In 2019, Deborah attended a three-day workshop with Mary Segars in Beaufort, SC, which introduced her to the enchanting subjects of the low country. She has since participated in additional workshops in 2023, 2024, and 2025, where she discovered a passion for painting birds, particularly egrets and spoonbills.

In August 2023, Deborah began studying under Aurora Bull at her studio. Aurora's exceptional teaching and artistic talent have greatly enhanced Deborah's skills, with a focus on attention to detail that brings her paintings to life.

Deborah is deeply grateful to the Lord for her artistic talent and the mentors who have guided her along the way. She finds inspiration in nature and believes that the encouragement she receives is meant to be shared.