Bicky Bender’s rural North Dakota upbringing was the beginning of her need to be creative because of the natural beauty of the prairie. She learned how to see and appreciate her surroundings.
From being the only student in her class in a one-room school, joining 27 others in 7th grade was a challenge. Music and art were her interests. After graduating from UND in Art Education, Bickey taught in public and parochial schools in North Dakota. She also served as an Artist in Residence for 5 years in the state.