The young artist, who is almost eight years old, has been named as a finalist in this year's Young Archie competition.

The drawing titled My Dad, was one 70 artworks picked from the 2400 entries submitted by school students this year.

This is the tenth Young Archies competition, which has had the most upcoming talent displayed in an exhibition.

The exhibition showcases portraits from across Australia, just like the Archibald Prize, but instead from students aged five to 18.

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"I was really excited that I was a finalist," the young drawer said.

When asked why he created the portrait, Sammy's answer was simple - "because I love him, because I like playing with him".

"He helps me do things when I can't do them by myself," he said.

The father and son duo love to read together and play games outside, such as soccer.

The portrait was a secret that Sammy only shared with his mum Peach Robb, but told his dad about once it was completed.

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"He thought it was amazing," the finalist said.

"It's really exciting, it's such a big thing for him," his mother said.

"He [has] always loved doing artworks, finger-painting for hours, and...arts and crafts."

Apart from his father's portrait, Sammy has depicted animals, designed a coat of arms for a school competition, dabbled in clay and drawn other faces.

The young artist also has a passion for science experiments.

While his parents are beaming with pride at their son's success, the portrait is extra special for the extended family.

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Sammy's grandmother is an artist living in Scotland, and has not met her grandson in-person yet.

The pair often exchange pictures of paintings and drawings they are working on, and have lengthy chats over Skype.

"It's actually a really special thing to have going," Mrs Robb said.

Sammy is eager to see his portrait in the gallery during the upcoming school holidays.

You can see his painting in the Young Archie exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW until August 24.

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