Howard Post's career, you could say began in third grade when his school teacher submitted one of his drawings to the local newspaper. He won the competition and was awarded a yellow toy bulldozer (which he still has today). He is a third-generation Arizonian and grew up on a small ranch near Tucson in southern Arizona. He attended the University of Arizona where he completed his BFA and MFA degrees. In the early 1970s he worked as a graphic designer and illustrator for a variety of clients throughout the United States. After serving on the faculty at both University of Arizona and Arizona State University, he began painting full-time.

He remains true to his western heritage. He still competes in roping competitions throughout the west, yet he still considers himself an artist rather than a cowboy. Foremost is his role as a husband and father. With his wife of 49 years, Marilyn, they have five grown children and 18 grandchildren.