Frederick Friis, born in Malmo, studied at the Art Academy in Copenhagen, then later in Munich, Vienna, and Paris. Influenced by Impressionist art, Friis immigrated to New York, where he studied at the Art Students League in 1890-91.

He settled in New Bedford, Massachusetts where he made a living as an illustrator for the Taber-Prang company. He did not show work in recognized galleries or exhibitions.

He lived and painted in Italy and Paris from 1906 to 1909.