Abraham Ruben was raised in the traditional lifestyle of his ancestors. His grandmother was a shaman. He attended the University of Alaska where he became familiar with art practices and took up carving. His themes are largely transformative. He has work in many permanent collections in North America, and has exhibited his work in The Art Gallery of Ontario (Toronto), The Museum of Civilization (Hull), The Winnipeg Art Gallery, The Prince of Wales Museum (Yellowknife), The Royal Ontario Museum (Toronto), and private galleries.