Robert Wyland is an American artist and conservationist, best known for his Whaling Walls—large outdoor murals featuring life-size images of whales and other sea life. Born on July 9, 1956, in Madison Heights, Michigan, Wyland began painting at a young age and later attended Detroit's Center for Creative Studies. His connection with whales began during a family trip to Laguna Beach, California, when he saw gray whales migrating.

In 1981, Wyland painted his first Whaling Wall on a hotel parking lot wall in Laguna Beach. Since then, he has created over 100 Whaling Walls around the world, raising awareness about marine conservation. Wyland also founded the Wyland Foundation in 1993 to help children rediscover the wonder of the ocean through art.

His largest mural, covering over three acres on the Long Beach Convention Center, set an international record. Wyland's work has been recognized by the United Nations and featured on various specialty license plates and UN stamps. He continues to inspire people with his art and conservation efforts.