Ralph was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and immigrated to South Africa as a child. When he was young, Ralph delighted in sculpting and was commissioned to do busts of prominent South Africans. However, it is as a painter that Ralph has achieved much success and critical acclaim. His paintings range from landscapes and seascapes through to portraits and still lifes. He is widely respected for his rose paintings and has exhibited and sold work throughout South Africa and worldwide.