Reuben Ugbine developed interest in wood carving at Warri Secondary School, Nigeria. Gained Diploma in Art from Federal Polytechnic, Auchi and Higher National Diploma in Sculpture from Yaba College of Technology, Lagos in 1979.

In 1982 started carving and became full-time artist in 1987.

Participated in the 'Transcending Boundaries' exhibitions in London in 2013 and 2014.