About Sam

Sam was born and grew up in Somerset in the 1970’s.
In 1991, having started a degree in Ceramics and 3D Design at Central St Martins College of Art in London, Sam had a change of direction and returned to the South West and settled in Dorset. Here she worked as a specialist finisher at a local picture framers and gallery, learning the craft of gilding and antique frame restoration. It was whilst here Sam was given the opportunity to exhibit with her new found passion for painting wildlife.

Sam creates vibrant acrylic paintings of predominantly British wildlife with a particular interest in birds - Barn Owls and Magpies being a favourite - and their connection to the native flora. Observation, photography, sketches, research into her subject’s behaviour and an intuitive feel for a composition provide the basis for the beginnings of a painting.

Inspiration comes from a lifelong passion for wildlife and the natural world, from watching the humble Sparrow in her garden and Puffins on Skomer Island, to Humback Whales and wild Horses in Iceland. Frequent visits to nature reserves and walks with her dog provide opportunities to absorb the beauty around her and be ‘in the moment’.
We have a tendency to underestimate the profound, positive impact, immersing ourselves in nature can have on our mental health and overall sense of well being.

Sam has two grown up children and a Granddaughter, and lives with her husband Rich and dog Reuben in South Somerset.
“ I wake up most mornings thinking about the next painting - usually something I have seen across the fields on a dog walk, or a countryside visit somewhere that has ignited the spark for a new idea. Endeavouring to translate what I see and feel in that moment onto canvas is what continues to drive me to paint”.

Sam exhibits at galleries and shows across the South West, has undertaken many commissions, and donated paintings to local charities.