Daniel Smith, one of America's foremost wildlife artists, enjoys wide acclaim for his conservation stamp artwork. After winning the first Minnesota Pheasant Stamp Competition in 1983, Smith, who had been working as a commercial artist, was able to begin painting full time. The detail and scientific accuracy of Smith's work quickly brought him attention. His talent caught the eyes of organizations such as the National Geographic Society, who commissioned him to paint five color plates for The Field Guide to the Birds of North America, and the prestigious Birds in Art exhibition sponsored by the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. His reputation for excellence has made him a favorite of collectors of original paintings as well.
Smith won the 1988-89 Federal Duck Stamp Competition and was named Ducks Unlimited International Artist of the Year in 1988. He was also the artist of the 1991 Texas Waterfowl Stamp. Smith, a native of Minnesota who now resides in Montana, considers his selection as the artist for the 1991 Minnesota Duck Stamp a feather in his "duck stamp bonnet."
In 1996, Smith was inducted into the U.S. Art Hall of Fame, and he was named "Artist of the Year" at the 1997 Florida Wildlife Art Expo.