Welcome to a collection of some of the work of Sam Curtin, a gifted artist who battled with ADHD* and expressed his world and struggles through surreal sculptures and paintings.

* Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

The Bear

The recurring theme in sculptures and paintings is the bear. Defiant and unsettling in life-size military uniform or as a boxer squaring up for the fight, a metaphor for Sam’s struggle with his disability. Next nursing a book or wrapped up in warm clothing against a bleak winter. This bear is Sam’s friend and fellow fighter.

Angel’s wings and an angel

Here Sam is intently reading his book, headphones on, clasped by huge winged hands. What is happening? Where is he? Is he unaware of what is happening or just totally relaxed and protected? We can only guess. This may be Sam’s defining piece. The angel is perched up high holding a harp- again a mystery.

Foxes and a bird

All wrapped against the cold, Sam’s foxes are alert and his perfectly crafted large bird is protecting her clutch of eggs. The struggle continues…

Paintings

Sam’s paintings and drawings display his talent and imagination. The bear continues his journey, joined by a beautiful woman and a bold piece of pop art.

Sam Curtin 1988-2026

Sam suffered from childhood with ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). Symptoms include difficulty paying attention and with self-control. This interferes with daily life including social relationships and work performance. As in Sam’s case it can lead to the loneliness and depression that led him to take his own life.But ADHD also strongly links to creativity through divergent thinking and frequent mind-wandering which allows the brain to make unusual connections which are certainly evident in Sam’s art.

Sam’s gallery partner charity West Sussex Mind

West Sussex Mind is an independent local charity. We support people with their mental health, provide specialist training and campaign to improve services and promote understanding.We also help people get into education or employment to achieve their personal and social goals and provide training for parents, carers and professionals. We also work in communities to raise awareness and to tackle the stigma which continues to affect the lives of people with mental health problems.We are an independent charity and receive no regular funding from the national Mind charity.Please consider donating to support our work across West Sussex.