Since 1979, John Strutt has been carving birds professionally. During his spare time, he studies birds in their natural habitat or at the Raptor Center, and studies skins at the Science Museum of Minnesota, all for one purpose - to recreate the birds' looks and personality. Over the years, he has carved hawks, eagles, falcons, owls, songbirds, and various waterfowl. John will not carve just any bird. Once he turned down a commission from the State of California to carve condors, because he does not like the bird.


His research and work has had its rewards. John has received "Best of Show" ribbons at national art shows since 1984. In 1999, he was awarded the "Best of Show" in every category at the National Ducks Unlimited Show in Kansas City. Additionally, in the 1980's President Reagan placed one of John's carvings in the permanent collection at the White House. Most rewarding to John, however, is recognition by his peers. Ken Carlson, renowned wildlife artist, has several of John's pieces, as do Dan Smith and Jimmy Hautman. He was also commissioned to carve a full-size Bald Eagle for the Department of Interior, and also a life-size loon and chick for the Minnesota Loon Project.


He has been awarded many "Best of Show" ribbons since 1984 as follows:

National Ducks Unlimited, Kansas City in 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999
National Operation Wildlife, Kansas City in 1996, 1997
First Annual College Square Art Fest, Cedar Rapids in 1999
Kansas City Art Fair (formerly National Duck's Unlimited) in 2000
Art Fair, Sioux City, Iowa (People's Choice Award) in 2001
Nature Works, Award of Excellence in 2008