At 17, Helen went to work in advertising after a short time at art school. After specializing in illustrations for newspapers and magazines for twenty years, she decided to leave and concentrate on Fine Arts: Drawing, Pastels, Oils, and Watercolour. This led to teaching classes and invitations to workshops throughout Australia over the past 27 years. Helen has won over 130 first prizes including Camberwell 1991 –1992, Sydney Artist of the Year 1991, and the Royal Art Medal of Distinction, 1999.

Helen has also illustrated books by R.M. Williams and Ruth Park. She is in demand for workshops and judging art exhibitions.