Sam is the driving force behind the Austin-based design and creative studio SAMPLE. The studio focuses on identity, packaging, apparel, and collateral for local brands including YETI, Criquet, Shiner, Whataburger, and NadaMoo! (among many others). Sam's work has a cheeky personality and delightfully nostalgic quality that harkens back to design elements from an era when design knew how to have more fun. In describing his artistic influences, Sam told us, "I love anything old, particularly from a time when things were done by hand – you can pick up on the beautiful inconsistencies and the artist's hand." Sam was born in Brooklyn, but moved with his family to Austin at the age of 3. His photographer father introduced him to the Austin art scene at an early age, and inspired his evolution in the world of design and branding. However, it wasn't until after his college years at Baylor University until he taught himself design programs and truly dove into his design career. After landing and internship and an eventual full-time role at a local design agency, Sam struck out on his own and started SAMPLE in 2020.