Painter and etcher William Lionel Wyllie Wyllie was born in London. His father and Lionel Smythe, an older half-brother were accomplished artists and encouraged William in his pursuit of artistic training, beginning at the Heatherly School of Fine Art, followed in 1866 at the Royal Academy, where he studied under Landseer, Millais, and Leighton. In 1869, the eighteen-year-old Wyllie won the Turner Gold Medal for his painting Dawn after a Storm.

Throughout his career as an illustrator and freelance artist, Wyllie exhibited his work at numerous venues, and became a member leading associations including the Society of British Artists, the Royal Institute of Painters and the New English Art Club. Wyllie became an associate Member of the Royal Academy, becoming a full member in 1907. He was also a member of the Royal Society of Painter-Etchers and Engravers.

Wyllie was the most distinguished marine artist of his day. His strong interest in maritime subjects led to a close association with the Royal Navy. In fact, Wyllie was buried with full naval honors in 1931.