Manton grew up in Connecticut, where as a child, he liked nothing better than to draw. After high school, he spent four years in the Navy, serving in a photo reconnaissance squadron through two tours of duty in Vietnam. As a photo interpreter Manton's observation skills became well honed. Manton was discharged from active duty in 1967. He enrolled in Sheridan College as an Art Major. Transferring to the University of Wyoming, Manton's attention became focused on three dimensional art, studying under critically acclaimed sculptor Robert Russin. Manton's bronze, Abstract Male Torso, exhibits the classical influence of Robert Russin's teaching. As a senior at the University of Wyoming Manton was awarded first place for sculpture in the City of Laramie Art Show.

After graduating from the University of Wyoming in 1971 with a Bachelors Degree in Art/Anthropology, Manton pursued a career with the Interior Department working as a Photographer, Draftsman, Geophysical Technician, and for 20 years as an Archaeologist. His work as Archaeologist further intensified his observational skills and contributes to his sensitivity to the visual world around him.

Retiring from Federal service Manton now devotes his time to sculpture. In the short time since the year 2002, his work has been exhibited and won prizes in local and regional art shows, and his pieces have been and are exhibited in public venues.

Manton Botsford's sculptures have been exhibited in the following venues:

City of Grand Junction, Colorado Art on the Corner Program 2002, 2003, 2005 and 2006	City of Carbondale, Colorado Art Around Town 2005 and 2006
"Paracemium" Glenwood Springs, Colorado Fall Art Festival 2005 Third Place Award	"Suntotem Family" City of Montrose, Colorado Public Art experience 2006
"Bronze Abstract Male Torso" Black Canyon Art Exhibit Hotchkiss Fine Arts Association First Place Award (2005) also Second Place Award (2006) Ouray County Arts Assn. Artists Alpine Holiday Art Show	"Jester" Black Canyon Art Exhibit Hotchkiss Fine Arts Association Second Place Award (2006)
"Neptune's Gift" First place award (2007) Ouray County Arts Assn. Artists Alpine Holiday Art Show Best of Show (2008) Black Canyon Art Exhibit Hotchkiss Fine Arts Association	"Ascent of the Mind" 2008 exhibit with Town of Parker, Colorado, Art Encounters exhibit, and purchase by town for permanent collection.