Debbie Wardrope is a Bay Area native and longtime Pleasanton resident who has always loved art and has pursued painting for most of her life, even during her 20-year career in mortgage banking. Debbie graduated "With Distinction" from the California College of Arts and Crafts (now California College of the Arts) in Oakland with a BFA in illustration.  Her work has been recognized through numerous awards, including "Best of Class" and merit awards at the Alameda County Fair.