Born in Henderson in 1989

Bachelor of visual arts majoring in painting, Auckland

University of technology, Auckland, New Zealand
2009

Sam Leitch is a contemporary artist known for his surreal approach to painting and hand-separated screen printing. His work reimagines everyday objects and symbols, placing them in unexpected contexts that spark curiosity and invite viewers into layered visual narratives.

At the heart of Sam’s practice is a fascination with the evolving relationship between artist, artwork, and viewer. Using bold colour and scale, he explores personal experiences and observations, crafting pieces that feel both familiar and disorienting.

Screen printing plays a central role in his process. Each edition is carefully hand-separated and printed by Sam himself, preserving the painterly essence of his originals while offering collectors accessible yet distinctive works. This meticulous approach ensures every print maintains the intimacy and vibrancy of his studio practice.

Whether displayed in a home or corporate setting, Sam’s artworks transcend trends—inviting audiences to pause, reflect, and discover something new with every viewing

'I have always been fascinated by what defines a piece of art. At the heart of my practice is the relationship between the viewer, the artist, and the work itself—an evolving dialogue that continues to shape my approach. I use colour and scale to explore what is current in my own world, drawing on personal experiences and observations. Everyday objects and symbols are recontextualized within surreal or unexpected environments, creating a sense of both familiarity and disorientation. My aim is to invite the viewer into these layered visual narratives—spaces that raise questions rather than provide answers.

Recently, my focus has turned toward the powerful stories of conservation efforts in Aotearoa and beyond. My current body of work celebrates the remarkable revival of the tīeke (saddleback) on Breaksea Island—reflecting the tireless work of conservationists who brought this species back from the brink of extinction. The movement of the tīeke, symbolic of growth and resilience, mirrors the broader journey of ecological restoration.

The translocation of vulnerable species to offshore island sanctuaries has become a vital strategy in New Zealand’s conservation framework. Through a fusion of artistry and advocacy, this series honours the tīeke’s triumph while inviting viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between human intervention and the natural world'.