With a distanced, scientific approach, he draws connections between data visualisation techniques, semiotics, and formalist abstraction that results in a kind of reductive aesthetics. While the delicate interplay between formalist figuration and modernist abstraction in his paintings operates on one level to distance the viewer – to encourage them to look objectively at the subjects – on another level each animal depicted has a symbolic currency that resonates with the audience on a personal level. The paintings extend their focus from animal life to the spectrum of all life itself, encouraging the viewer to contemplate their role as living creatures on this shared earth.

Leach is respected as an authority on the evolving link between AI and art. Often interviewed on the subject, he was recently on the ABC’s Catalyst explaining how he utilises the intersection of technology and art. Interviewed by a number of experts in the AI field, including Dr Kristin Alford and Jessica Herrington, Leach is eager to participate in the mercurial discourse on the advancement of AI and its place in society and art in particular.

In 2010, Leach won both Wynne and Archibald Prizes at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. His work has been extensively exhibited nationally and internationally. Recent solo exhibitions include Everything Will Probably be Fine, Sullivan+Strumpf, Sydney (2022); 6600+, curated by Vanessa Gerrans, Warrnambool Art Gallery, VIC (2018); Avian Interplanetary, Linden New Art, Melbourne (2017); Gravity Tractor, Sullivan+Strumpf, Singapore (2016); and Crossing Borders, Palazzo Bembo, 56th Venice Biennale, Italy (2015).

Sam Leach has works held in various private collections in Australia and overseas, and in the public collections of Art Gallery New South Wales, HOTA Gallery (Gold Coast), Art Gallery of South Australia, La Trobe University, and Artbank. He completed a Bachelor of Economics at Adelaide University in 1993, and studied at RMIT in Melbourne, graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Painting) in 2003, Honours Fine Art (Painting) in 2004, a Master of Arts (Fine Arts) in 2005 and did his PHD in Fine Art at RMIT University, Melbourne in 2017. He currently lives and works in Melbourne, Australia.