A graduate of the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles, Oppegard worked as a freelance illustrator for 23 years for clients such as Max Factor, Redken, Giorgio, and Mattel Toys. Her knowledge of Thoroughbred racing, gleaned from years spent watching her husband train race horses and traveling with him to tracks around the country, imbues her equine scenes with authenticity. Oppegard has exhibited widely and has won numerous awards.