Terry Straus grew up in Brooklyn, NY. She learned to draw in High School, thanks to a scholarship at The Cooper Un ion,, She joined “The League“, in NYC, She was Assistant to the Creative Director, at a medium sized advertising agency. Straus worked with many photographers, illustrators, directors, and models. She returned to school, earning a: BA, MA, State, and City Certificates to teach Art, K - 12.

In her 30s, Straus taught high school art and exhibited in NYC, In her 40s, Straus set up a painting studio in the Hudson Valley. Now she maintains homes in NY and CA. She exhibits widely including; museums, galleries, and public spaces. Straus was awarded a residency at The Art Students LeaguE of NY.