A native of Puerto Rico, Rafael De Soto was training for the priesthood when his natural artistic talent was first noticed by one of his teachers, Father Noel, who arranged for Rafael to take private art lessons with a local artist named Diaz McKenna.  After completing his education at the seminary, Rafael decided to become an artist rather than complete his religious training in Rome.  After moving to New York City in 1932, De Soto went on to become a prolific cover artist.  After retiring from freelance illustration in 1964, De Soto taught art at the State University of New York.