She began her art training under the first art instructor the University of Hawaii, Huc-Mazelet Luquiens (1881–1961). Foley continued her art education at the University of Washington, and spent two years in London at the Slade School of Art as a pupil of Henry Tonks (1862–1937).
She commenced her artistic studies under Huc-Mazelet Luquiens, the inaugural art educator at the University of Hawaii. Foley continued her artistic education at the University of Washington and then spent two years in London at the Slade School of Art as a pupil of Henry Tonks.