He completed a degree in history and political science at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. He then returned to Toronto where he attended the Ontario College of Art. His last year at the college was spent in Florence, Italy. Inspired by this experience, Howard returned to Italy where he lived and painted for several more years. He also travelled extensively during this time, visitng north Africa, the Middle East, and much of Europe. For the last 10 years, he has lived in Toronto.