Catherine Tirr was born in England and studied fine art at Chelsea School of Art and Design in London. Even before graduating from college she began to exhibit her work internationally. She was awarded the Stowell's Trophy by Sir Hugh Casson, at London's Royal Academy. She relocated to the United States to earn a masters degree at Cranbrook Art Academy in Michigan. By 1983 she was showing in many Detroit area galleries. A collaboration with Detroit poet Chris Tysh culminated in a publication entitled "Coat of Arms", published by Station Hill Press. Her move to New York City was followed by two shows at The Drawing Center. She was granted awards by The New York Foundation For the Arts and Materials For The Arts. Since her move to Los Angeles in 1991 her work has been included in group shows at the Los Angeles County Museum and the Armand Hammer Museum, in addition to many group and one person gallery exhibitions.