Ted Menten was born and raised in New York City’s Greenwich Village. There, he studied painting with local artists. At age sixteen, he took on a summer job as a staff artist for Metro Associated Services—a newspaper clip art service. Menten has since worn many hats. He has written, produced, and directed three off-Broadway plays, a TV series Invitation to the Dance, published several coloring books and paper dolls in various styles, and authored a series of books dealing with grief. Menten has also been a successful toy designer for many years and has taught the art of teddy bear–making around the world. His handmade bears are on display in several museums including one in Japan. He resides in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
