John Fredrick Heckman was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He studied at the School of Associated Arts in St. Paul, and the College of Art and Design in Minneapolis, Mn. He went on to free lance illustration for several years, later pursuing an interest in fine arts from his studio on Mille Lacs Lake in northern Minnesota. Interested in cultural backgrounds, Heckman has studied the Amish, and Native American plus various other cultures in his pursuit of giving substance and personality to his paintings. Heckman has received honors and awards for his work, which are held in private and corporate collections. Mr. Heckman currently resides in Sauk Rapids, Mn. and is the owner of Culture thru Art Company.