Stephen Lyman

Stephen Lyman

1957 - 1996

Born in 1957 in Idaho, wildlife artist Stephen Lyman was an explorer who specialized in painting the most elusive moments in nature. His inspiring work was inspired, in turn, by the writing and teachings of famous naturalist John Muir. "Muir wrote, 'Climb the mountains, and get their good tidings,'" Lyman said. "I know exactly what he meant." Lyman's love of the great outdoors stemmed from a childhood spent in the Pacific Northwest, where hiking in Snake River country was a regular family ritual. 

Lyman had a natural artistic talent and began his professional career as an illustrator in Los Angeles after attending art and design school in Pasadena California. However, a true explorer who was inspired in part naturalist and writer John Muir, the artist decided to return back to the Northwest. He began to communicate his love for nature with art and spent his time hiking, exploring and meticulously researching the subjects for each of his paintings. 

He continued to discover the wonders of the natural world and of living a natural lifestyle. "All my paintings have their origins in my experience and perception of beauty in the wilderness," he said.  

His work included paintings, sketches and photographs made during more than 35 trips into California's Yosemite National Park, Alaska's Denali National Park, Oregon's Willamette Valley, the Canadian Rockies and Northern Idaho. Stephen was killed climbing in Yosemite National Park in California.

About the Artist

Stephen Lyman was celebrated for his ability to portray the emotional intensity of the American West through dynamic wildlife and mountain landscape painting. His work often features powerful compositions that highlight the relationship between animals and their rugged natural environments. Collectors admire Lyman’s bold color palettes, dramatic contrasts, and energetic brushwork that bring depth and movement to every scene.

Today, Stephen Lyman wall art remains highly sought after by collectors who appreciate large mountain wall art and wildlife prints that command attention. His artwork pairs beautifully with lodge-style interiors, cabins, and rustic-inspired homes, offering a timeless tribute to the strength and majesty of the wilderness.

If you’re drawn to Stephen Lyman’s powerful landscapes and wildlife scenes, explore our Mountain Wall Art and Wildlife Wall Art collections for additional nature-inspired pieces. You can also browse our Large Wall Art collection to find oversized statement pieces designed for expansive living spaces and vaulted interiors.