Niels Andersen was born in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1958. His father, Henning Andersen, worked in Greenland for the British Army to earn the money for his family to immigrate to the United States as he felt his children would have more opportunities in America. This has always been a motivating factor in Niels’ life to work hard and not let his father's sacrifice be in vain. It was his kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Woodard, who first recognized his incredible gift and she encouraged his parents to nurture his artistic talent. In his early teens, Niels’ father enrolled him in an art instruction school where he received a basic art certificate in illustration. In 1989, Niels decided to put his artistic talent to work. In need of a supplemental income to start a family with his wife, Annette, he picked up some clay and created his first sculpture of a male bodybuilder. Niels had previous hopes of competing in bodybuilding until he hurt his back roofing. He was fascinated by the anatomy and thought he would try to sculpt the perfect physique; he was pleased with the results and they were sold to promoters as trophies for bodybuilding competitions. Since then Niels Andersen Sculptures has grown to become the industries leading supplier of bodybuilding and fitness awards. In 1993, he diversified into other sport figurines and has gone on to create several other collections including: Religious, First Responders and Military. Niels takes great pride in his work; he loves realism and extreme details which is expressed through his exquisitely detailed artwork. He has done real bronze sculptures but wanted to create a product that everyone could afford and enjoy. All of the sculptures are made of a durable poly-resin, coated with a gallery bronze, gold, platinum pewter or classic marble finish and hand-antiqued to highlight the details. Niels currently resides in Scottsdale, AZ with his family where he co-owns and operates his manufacturing business with Annette. Niels feels blessed to do something he thoroughly enjoys for a living. He has always said, “I cannot take credit for the talent God has given me, I could only take credit for using it.” Heisman Trophy In December 2000, Niels was honored to be commissioned to sculpt the first-ever official High School Heisman. This sculpture was depicted after Kenneth Hall, who holds the record for the All-Time Leading Running Back in high school history. This award was presented by Heisman winner Tony Dorset on Fox Sports Channel.