John Sydney Steel (1863 – 1932): A Pioneer of Australian Wildlife Painting John Wesley Steel, born in Melbourne, Australia, in 1863, emerged as a prominent figure in late Victorian and Edwardian art, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Australian painting. His artistic journey was shaped by influences ranging from European Romanticism to Impressionism, resulting in a distinctive style characterized by meticulous detail and atmospheric realism—a hallmark that continues to captivate collectors and scholars alike. Early Life & Education: Steel’s formative years were spent honing h…