Biography

Sam Umaria was born in Mumbai, India and moved to New Zealand in 1997.

His love for sculpture was sparked while watching master artisans at work at a sculpture studio adjacent to his primary school in Mumbai.

Self-taught and sculpting since 1973, he describes himself as a minimal modern abstractionist sculptor.

Sam’s creations begin with one epiphany after another; long periods of contemplation and technical problem-solving follow. The subject of his sculpture dictates the medium he uses; these can range from metal, to glass, to fabric.

His scientific training coupled with his understanding of modern technology and love of traditional techniques has allowed him to create a very unique style.

Sam is often invited to exhibit as a guest artist in New Zealand and other parts of the world. This includes the Loveland Art Show - heralded as one of the finest outdoor-juried exhibitions of three-dimensional artwork in the United States. He has undertaken numerous private commissions in New Zealand and abroad.