A native of the Pacific Northwest, Stephen Bergstrom began his formal art education at the Art. Institute of Seattle, where he graduated with a degree in Art. Bergstrom was introduced to art at an early age by his grandfather, a painter, writer, and engineer. As a student, several artists influenced Bergstrom's work, especially Swedish painter Anders Zorn for his vivid depictions of water and accuracy of the portrait. Rembrandt's evocative light and dark shadows showed Stephen the drama he could capture. These early influences are still the cornerstones of his passion for painting.

His education led him to work as an illustrator for magazines and newspapers, and to storyboarding TV commercials, working as a creative consultant on the set alongside the directors. Between projects he was either at the easel or plein-air painting. Eventually painting became his primary focus.

Stephen Bergstrom's artwork has been shown both locally and nationally since 1989. He won "Best of Show" at the 1985 Washington State Regional Art Show, the first of many such honors. His original oils and limited edition prints have found their way into collector's homes around the world.