Tracy Helgeson was born in Rochester, Minnesota. She attended the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, majoring in Graphic Design and then attended the Philadelphia College of Art (now University of the Arts) where she studied illustration. Philadelphia was a great influence on Tracy and it was there that her work began to take on a unique style as she learned the under painting skills and glazing techniques that distinguish her current work.

In 2003, after relocating with her family (husband and four kids!) to upstate New York and greatly inspired by the natural beauty surrounding the farmhouse that she lives and works in, Tracy began painting landscapes for the first time. She has continued to focus on landscapes as well as other farm related imagery such as barns, quiet country roads and the occasional livestock.

After a recent move to a different farmhouse, with all new views, a newly empty nest and now as a mid-career artist, Tracy is still exploring color and form in the land and structures around her and keeps busy with gallery shows, and a recent museum exhibit.