A native of Oklahoma City, Glen Brunken received a master of fine arts degree from Wichita State University and a bachelor of fine arts degree from Kansas City Art Institute. Born with cerebal palsy, which affected his motor skills and movement, Brunken painted to channel frustration, and as a way of expressing himself. He taught art at Slippery Rock University from 1969 to 2009. His work has been displayed at galleries in New York City and Pittsburgh, and through Concept Art Gallery.