Brenda Stewart CDA/TDA
Brenda Stewart, BFA, CDA, TDA, is a highly accomplished and versatile artist with extensive experience working in a variety of mediums, including acrylic, watercolor, oils/alkyds, and more recently, colored pencils. Her artistic journey began at the age of seven, when her father, a skilled sketch artist and wood carver, recognized her budding interest in art and enrolled her in drawing and painting classes. His strong encouragement during those formative years helped shape her into the accomplished artist she is today.
Brenda taught classes in Louisiana beginning in 1972, among them oil on canvas, decorative techniques, and watercolor. Her teaching career expanded nationally and internationally, beginning with her first appearance at the SDP National Convention in Seattle in 1979 and her first exhibition at “Tole Country” in 1980. Over the past five decades, Brenda has taught countless classes and seminars, amassing a vast body of published work, including over 750 instructional tutorials and magazine articles. She has also authored 18 books and 4 DVDs. Her passion for teaching endures, and she currently conducts ZOOM classes, sharing her expertise with students worldwide.
Brenda and her husband, Robert, owned and operated a retail shop in Louisiana for 15 years, where Brenda taught seminars and had other instructors on staff. After relocating to Virginia in 1998, they continued their seminar program through 2022, while Brenda maintained a successful travel seminar schedule. They also exhibited her work at various decorative painting shows across the U.S. and Canada, though they have since retired from participating in shows. Brenda has now shifted her teaching exclusively to ZOOM.
A long-time member of the Society of Decorative Painters (SDP), Brenda earned the Certified Decorative Artist (CDA) designation in 1979 and later became a TDA (Teacher of Decorative Arts) with the program’s inception in 2000. She was an active leader in the SDP, serving as president from 1990-91 and holding a position on the board of directors for six years. Her contributions to the field were recognized with the Silver Palette Award in 2006 and the Distinguished Service Award in 2011.
Throughout her career, Brenda’s art and teaching have continuously evolved as she explores new mediums, subject matter and techniques. She believes in the importance of continual growth for every artist, fostering both skill development and a lasting joy in the creative process. Outside of her artistic endeavors, Brenda enjoys spending time with her family and participating in church activities. She and Robert are considering a future relocation to North Carolina to be closer to part of their family.
Send your questions or comments to Brenda@brendastewart.com
Or call 757-564-7093