Born in New Orleans, Rolland Harve Golden and his family moved around the Mississippi Delta throughout his childhood before settling in the Crescent City. Golden left college after only one semester to join the U.S. Navy; upon discharge, he enrolled for two years in the John McCrady Art School in New Orleans’ French Quarter. In June 1957 Golden opened Patio Art Studio, his first studio/gallery, at 624 Royal Street, where he operated for 10 years.

Golden eventually had more than 100 one-man exhibitions at home and abroad. and received numerous awards, including the Thomas Hart Benton Purchase Award (twice), the National Arts Club First Place Award (thrice), and the Winslow Homer Memorial Award.