Rod was born in North Dakota in 1958. At a young age his love for birds and the outdoors became apparent. Often, he would wander over the prairies and fields as he explored the wonders of nature.

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Because his family moved quite often, he was able to explore a large part of the Western United States.  Luck would have it that he always lived near the edge of town with easy access to the wild spaces.

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As a teenager, his family moved to Utah where he has resided since 1975.  During his junior year of high school, Rod discovered art. Soon after, he was befriended by a couple of local artists who tutored him in drawing.  At this time he painted oil landscapes that were sold in local Salt Lake City art galleries.

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After Rod graduated from high school, he went on to receive more schooling and got his Associates Degree in Graphic Design.

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Through his experiences and interests in hunting, fishing and falconry, he has been able to include his love of landscapes and early agriculture, birds, and other wildlife in his paintings. He continues to be an avid painter, hunter, fisherman, and camper.