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's desire to share his admiration for the outdoors was strong, but he enrolled in the Art Center School of Design in Pasadena, California, to learn more about the commercial art field. He started his career as an illustrator in Los Ang...