Joe Hautman's first experience as a professional artist came when he won the Federal Duck Stamp contest in 1991. Before he had even sold a painting, he was receiving honors for his artistic achievements and had visited with President George Bush in the Oval office.

Ten years later, after winning several state contests and his second Federal Duck Stamp contest in 2001, Joe has begun to earn his reputation. From an early age Joe loved to draw and paint, but he soon became fascinated by the sciences as well. His artistic talents took a back seat during his academic career. He studied physics and astronomy at the University of Minnesota, and eventually earned a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Michigan. In the midst of an active research career, Joe began to enter the Federal Duck Stamp contest as a way to exercise his artistic skills. His surprise victory provided the extra incentive he needed to return professionally to his first love. He now paints full-time and says he finds it as challenging and fulfilling as his scientific career.

Joe lives Plymouth, Minnesota. His work features a variety of North American animals and, inspired by several trips to India, tigers and other Asian wildlife. The accuracy of detail and well researched naturalistic settings in his work reflect his scientific background, as well as a reverence for the wildlife and their habitat.