The Uphill Struggle is a charming and tenderly humorous limited edition artwork by celebrated British artist Sam Toft, whose imaginative world of Ernest Hemingway Mustard, his loyal dog Doris, and their extended family of four-legged friends has captivated collectors for decades. Toft's unique "wonky donkey" technique-layering, scraping, and reworking oil pastel-imbues each piece with textured warmth, gentle imperfection, and an unmistakable sense of movement. Her art celebrates the poetry of everyday living, giving voice to the small moments of perseverance, companionship, and joy that form the rhythm of ordinary life.
In this delightful composition, Toft presents Mr Mustard undertaking a truly valiant effort as he pedals his way up an impressively steep hill. Laden with more cargo than any bicycle could reasonably be expected to handle, Mr Mustard pushes onward with quiet determination. His bicycle is comically overburdened: a basket at the front, another at the back, and a trailer in tow, each one brimming with animals of every description. Dogs and cats peek out in all directions, their quirky expressions and relaxed postures contrasting beautifully with Mr Mustard's visible strain.
Amid this humorous chaos, Toft introduces one of the scene's most endearing details: a small Scottish Terrier pushing bravely against Mr Mustard's leg, clearly doing its best to help counterbalance the weight and offer a little encouragement. It's a tender visual metaphor for the quiet, often unseen support offered by friends-one of Toft's most cherished themes.
The composition is elegantly simple yet rich with narrative. Toft's warm earth-toned palette, soft pastels, and textured strokes bring the hill, bicycle, and characters to life with understated charm. The incline of the hill creates a natural diagonal sweep, guiding the viewer's eye through the piece and emphasising both the humour and heroism of the moment. As always, Toft's minimalist backgrounds allow the story to shine, inviting viewers to inhabit the gentle universe of Mr Mustard, where even challenges are infused with optimism and affection.
Rendered as a giclée print on paper, The Uphill Struggle captures the organic textures and layered pigment of Toft's oil pastel originals with remarkable clarity. The artwork is mounted and framed in a cream moulded wooden frame, a sympathetic and timeless choice that enhances the soft colour palette and offers a neutral, elegant presentation suitable for any interior. The framed piece has a welcoming, balanced presence on the wall-neither overwhelming nor diminutive-making it adaptable for living spaces, hallways, reading nooks, and curated art groupings alike.
Measuring 34.5 x 30 cm (image size) and 59 x 52 cm when framed, this limited edition artwork is individually hand-signed and numbered by Sam Toft and accompanies a Certificate of Authenticity. With only 150 copies available worldwide, it offers a meaningful opportunity for collectors to acquire a piece that embodies Toft's signature blend of humour, heart, and homely charm.
More than a comedic moment, The Uphill Struggle is a celebration of perseverance, friendship, and the gentle absurdity of life with pets. It is a reminder that even the toughest climbs feel lighter when shared-and that in Toft's world, there is always room for love, laughter, and a little unexpected help from a devoted furry friend.
Edition Size: 150 Copies
Medium: Giclée Print on Paper
Image Size: 34.5 x 30 cm
Framed Size: 59 x 52 cm
Frame: Mounted and framed in a cream moulded wooden frame
Includes: Certificate of Authenticity
Looking for more by Sam Toft? We are delighted to present a curated collection of her limited edition prints and original works. Please get in touch if you would like assistance choosing the perfect addition to your collection.
01373 464528
