Stewart was born in St. Louis, MO., and moved to Oakland, CA., at the age of five. Her parents and schoolteachers noticed Stewart’s natural artistic ability and encouraged her to pursue this passion. She continued to paint throughout her childhood, and with overwhelming support from her adult mentors, Stewart received a four-year scholarship to the San Francisco Art Academy after graduating from high school. In addition to the San Francisco Art Academy, she also attended Chabot College in Hayward, CA., and California State University where she majored in fine arts. She left school before graduation and did not paint again until 1990. In 1990, Stewart reentered the art world after encouragement from friend and neighbor Terry McMillian, who is a best-selling novelist. Utilizing African American themes within her paintings, Stewart began painting artwork that featured women dancing, praying, and performing everyday tasks. Combining her love for African American history and her own identity as an African American woman, Stewart’s art slowly gained momentum and popularity in art circles.
