Rockne Knuth was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1941. Following in the footsteps of his brother, Carl "Spike" Knuth, also a naturalist and wildlife artist, Rockne began observing, drawing and painting birds at a very young age. A move to Fond du Lac with his family in 1950 gave him access to the woodlands, lakes and marshes from which he draws much of his inspiration.

Rockne has done covers and inside illustrations for several wildlife publications as well as work for both the National Wildlife Federation and the National Audubon Society. His works have appeared in galleries throughout the country. He has been included in seven of the Leigh Yawkey Woodson's "Birds in Art" exhibitions and associated tours, including one to Beijing, China. Two of his pieces are in the museum's permanent collection.