Sheila Judge Hall
Sheila (SJ) Hall is a distinguished artist, author, and teaching artist whose work spans over three decades. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, Sheila is the founder and creative force behind S J Hall Art & Design, where she brings her vibrant artwork into homes, galleries, and corporate spaces through original paintings, textile designs, and commissioned projects. Her work has been featured in museum stores, public art installations, and fashion collections, reflecting her commitment to creating art that inspires and uplifts. Sheila is also the author of Bold Strokes, Bold Statements, Bold Faith, a portfolio that captures her artistic journey, vision, and passion.
Before focusing fully on her art, Sheila dedicated over 30 years to education, serving as an elementary school principal and district-level administrator. In these leadership roles, she evaluated school principals, oversaw operations for dozens of schools, led staff development initiatives, and strengthened parent and community engagement. Her background in education informs her approach as a teaching artist, where she empowers learners of all ages through hands-on, esteem-building art experiences, from youth workshops to senior community programs.
In addition to her art and education work, Sheila is a motivational speaker and creative consultant, offering team-building art workshops, faith-based creative sessions, and social art events. She also serves on the Board of Advisors for the Dance Speaks Performing Arts Academy and volunteers with senior communities, demonstrating her commitment to fostering creativity, confidence, and connection in every space she engages. Her work blends artistry, leadership, and mentorship, leaving a lasting impact on the communities she serves.
• Teacher Certification, Principal Certification
• Licensed Manufactory/ Vendor for AKA®
• University of Alaska Anchorage- M.A.
• East Carolina University- B.A.
• East Carolina University- B.S.
• Exhibiting Artist in 2015 East Carolina Univ School of Art and Design Alumni Exhibition
• Raleigh NC Chapter of Links Incorporated
• Chi Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Incorporated
• Artspace Raleigh
• Springfield First Baptist Church
• Friends of Elders Peak
• The Links
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to coming from a strong family of role models and my ability to inspire and draw out creativity in others.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received, from my father, is to surround yourself with good people—and if you’re the smartest person in the room, leave the room.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to find your niche, discover what brings you joy, and focus on how you can help others.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is ensuring that art reaches a wide audience and gets the visibility it deserves.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are faith in God, continual self-evaluation, and self-care, all while cherishing my family—38 years of marriage, two children, and seven grandchildren—alongside my passion for teaching, creating art, writing, and sharing my work through SJ Hall Artworks, my gallery, and my newly launched book, Bold Strokes, Bold Statements, Bold Faith.