Born in Adelaide in 1973, Sam Leach studied at RMIT University, graduating with a BA (Hons.) in Painting in 2004 and a Master of Arts (Fine Arts) in 2009. His paintings, which typically examine the relationship between science, nature and technology, are characterised by their modest scale; their fine, precisely observed and realised detail; and their invocation of the traditions of 17th century still-life painting. Leach has been a finalist in many prizes and exhibitions across a number of genres including landscape, natural history and portraiture. A finalist in 2007, 2008 and 2009, Leach won the Archibald Prize in 2010 with his portrait of comedian, actor and musician, Tim Minchin; and in the same year was awarded the Wynne Prize for landscape painting. Leach was a finalist in the University of Queensland Self Portrait Prize in 2009. His work is represented in collections such as Monash University, Artbank, Geelong Art Gallery and the University of Queensland, as well as private collections.
