Nearing the end of her sixth decade Shirley explored the interior of North Carolina.  She was drawn to Hillsborough’s vibrant, historic and scenic community. Also nearby an international airport, museums and medical care.

The Ruff’s purchased a home in Hillsborough and now spend the first two weeks at the beach and the second two weeks of each month in the Hills.  Shirley maintains an art studio in each home.   She lives near the Mountain to Sea Trail (MST) in Hillsborough and near the beach in Southern Shores.  Inspired by both areas Shirley dedicates herself to producing art in each place.

Prior to May 2017

A native Nebraskan, Shirley taught art for twenty-five years with undergraduate and graduate degrees in Art Education.  She retired from Alexandria, Virginia to North Carolina in 2000 to enjoy the beach and pursue life as an artist. 

 In Nebraska, Shirley was a member of the Associated Artists of Omaha and her work appeared at shows throughout the city including Joslyn Castle, the College of Saint Mary and private showings.  Ruff then moved to Alexandria, Virginia where she became a member of the Art League and Gallery West.  Her work was shown in solo and group shows.  Her artwork also appeared in National and State Art Conferences, the Lyceum Museum in Alexandria and at the Torpedo Factory.

Since Ruff’s retirement in 2000 she has been associated and shown at many galleries in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.  Her work has been featured in solo and group shows at the beach and in Brooklyn, NY.  Shirley is a member of Kill Devil Hills Artists Cooperative Gallery and shows at the Dare County Arts Council.  Shirley's work can be viewed locally at Churches, Outer Banks Hospital, Nags Head Town Hall, Southern Shores Town Hall, local offices, private residences, Aqua S, the Brewing Station, Pamlico Jack’s restaurants and Super French’s Coffee Shop in Brooklyn.  Shirley’s art work has won many art competitions and has been purchased by art patrons from around the world.  You can also see Ruff's paintings in progress at her home.  If you don't catch her there you might find her walking the dog.  

Shirley now enjoys finding herself in a tale of two cities.