A Kiss to Hang a Dream on (Sketch)

Sam Toft is a British artist known for her whimsical, heartfelt paintings that capture life’s quiet joys and everyday moments. Her work is inspired by the world she’s created around her beloved characters—most notably Ernest Hemmingway Mustard, his wife Violet, and their plump Jack Russell Terrier, Doris. Set in a version of her hometown of Brighton, this imaginary world is painted in soft, nostalgic tones and filled with charm, kindness, and gentle humour.

Sam describes her artistic vision as one rooted in comfort and acceptance: “The world of Mustard, with its old-fashioned values and a strong sense of whimsy, is real comfort in these unpredictable times.” She believes in embracing life as it is, feeling deeply without becoming overwhelmed, and sharing moments of joy—what she calls “handing out the rose-tinted spectacles.”

When she’s not painting, Sam lives by the sea in an old white house with her two dogs, Betty and Stan. She runs a small shop nearby and has lovingly restored two traditional telephone boxes, transforming them into community art spaces.

This year, she is embarking on an exciting new project with her sister Louise, a psychotherapist and life coach. Together, they’re creating a collaborative book that blends Sam’s artistic storytelling with Louise’s life wisdom—a heartfelt collection designed to uplift, comfort, and inspire like a “big warm hug.”