SPLENDOUR on the Grass and Art on the Path, Rewired, Remembrain are just a few of the names Sam Ford's mum Margaret calls his art sessions with his mentor and aunt Catherine Edwards.

Sam is turning 21 today.

The young man who "exudes happiness" was violently bashed in an unprovoked attack in October 2009 and left with severe brain injury, needing 24-hour care. He spent 18 months in hospital recovering from his horrific injury and has now been home for just over a year.

He and Ms Edwards have been working together to put on an exhibition of their collaboration.

"It was to be for Sam's 21st birthday party but we have been delayed a few weeks," Ms Ford said.

"The exhibition, Road to Recovery is a celebration of his artistic expression through brain injury.

"It is also a celebration of his birthday and all of the hard work, determination and courage that he has had to muster over the past few years."

Sam's brain injury has been the inspiration behind his portfolio of work, according to Ms Ford.

"What started as a release away from all the hard work and physical training has turned into a passion," she said.

"He exudes happiness and laughter with his art.

"His confidence has improved along with his communication. Sam's speech has been affected with his injury so the art has become a way for him to express his feelings and his journey so far."

Road to Recovery will be held at the Cabarita Surf Life Saving Club at 4pm on Saturday, June 2.