Re-living the 1980s through art

04 Feb 2026

Clint C is an artist whose work instantly sparks recognition and joy. Based in Hamilton, he creates bold, sculptural artworks that sit somewhere between pop culture, memory and playful design. His pieces are unapologetically graphic and colourful, designed to live on walls but pull you straight back in time – to a fun one at that!

Clint describes his artwork as “a little bit different than most… currently I’d call it Nostalgic wall sculpture that is artwork re-living my 1980’s youth.”

Clint’s LIFESAVERS Rest (seat) is painted in Resene Half Turbo and was sold through Sculpture OnShore where a portion of the profits were given to Women’s Refuge.

The path to becoming an artist wasn’t planned so much as felt. “I had a bit of a lightbulb moment,” he says. “One day while on holiday in 2018 I had a night where I couldn’t sleep and lay there thinking about what my purpose was. After about 6 hours I thought “let’s do what makes me happy”, so I quit my job and went all in creating. It took 2-3 years of trial and error to find my style and make my creations a sustainable business.”

These bright Allsorts are painted in a mix of Resene Turbo, Half Smitten, West Side and Wellywood.

We asked which of Clint’s works were his favourite, and while choosing a favourite is difficult, some pieces stand out for their scale, meaning and impact.

“Gosh it is always hard to choose a favourite piece, possibly the Giant Monopoly style Title Deed card I created for Eden Park stadium that celebrates 2024 and the 50th game at the fortress unbeaten. The LIFESAVER lollies are up there too though as they have a hidden meaning supporting those that help others as well as a yummy fun lolly from way back.”

Clint’s work also often carries deeper messages of support and generosity. “In 2025 I donated part of all profits made from the 30cm Lifesavers to the charity I AM HOPE.”

The Eden Park Deed features Resene Wet N Wild.

 
The giant LIFESAVERS are painted in Resene Half Turbo, Tangerine, Smashing and Japanese Laurel. 

Each artwork begins with careful craftsmanship before colour takes centre stage. The final glossy finish gives the pieces their unmistakable visual punch.

“My current work involves creating the wooden sculptures first and then the design work of painting. The real finished product comes to life when I add the Epoxy resin top coat which gives the work a glass like or plastic type look.”

The Pacman Set is painted in Resene Turbo, Havoc, Charlotte, Ballerina and West Side.

Today, Clint works full time as an artist, balancing galleries, online and art shows across New Zealand and Australia. Resene paints play a key role in bringing his ideas to life, particularly for their bold colour range and suitability for wood.

“I love the vast colour selection that Resene offer as my work is very graphic, bold and bright, the paints are easily accessible in small or large quantities. Also, the Lumbersider acrylics are perfect for the wood substrates.”

When it comes to a favourite colour, the choice reflects his approach perfectly. “Turbo… It’s a very bright primary yellow that for me is just such a fun and happy colour.”

Beyond the studio, Clint continues to give back through charitable support, private commissions and community focused projects, proving that art rooted in nostalgia can still have a very present-day impact.

See more of Clint’s work on his website and Instagram.

Published: 04 Feb 2026