CLINTON GORST cut it out!
hand cut Collages
‘SURREAL REALISM IN PHOTOMONTAGE'
Step into the surreal universe of Clinton Gorst, where the precision of analog collage is elevated into a fine art through an intricate photomontage technique. By remixing and re-contextualizing resource imagery, Gorst constructs vibrant new worlds that prioritize storytelling, weaving a "new mythology" that feels both ancient, futuristic and revelatory all at once. His compositions seamlessly fuse the power of architecture with threads of classical antiquity, mythology, fantasy, pop art and fashion, resulting in visionary environments where narrative is paramount. This cinematic approach naturally extends into the realm of music, where his acclaimed album art designs translate sonic landscapes into striking visual realities.
Explore this curated collection of exhibitions to experience his unique brand of surreal realism—then visit the shop to bring an original piece of his into your own space.
BIO
Clinton Gorst is a New Zealand-born artist based in Sydney, Australia, who has earned international acclaim for his mastery of analogue (hand-cut) collage. His creative journey began in childhood, fueled by a passion for music and pop culture, which eventually led him to study graphic design in Wellington. During a pivotal period living in London in the mid 1990s, he was deeply influenced by the avant-garde aesthetics of fashion and culture magazines. This background in design, combined with a meticulous eye for detail, allowed him to transition from a hobbyist into a professional artist known for "surreal realism."
What sets Gorst’s work apart is his strict adherence to traditional methods; he uses original vintage books as resources, predominantly from the 1950s to the 1970s, to construct his pieces. By using scissors and scalpels with surgical precision, he "paints" with paper, camouflaging the edges so effectively that the final compositions often appear to be digital creations or seamless photographs. His narratives frequently blend Mid-century Modernism and Brutalist architecture with elements of science fiction and fantasy, creating retro-futuristic landscapes that feel both nostalgic and prophetic.
In recent years, Gorst’s profile has grown significantly within the contemporary art scene. His 2019 exhibition, FUTURE, was highly critically acclaimed, and he has become a staple at prestigious events like The Other Art Fair. Beyond the gallery walls, he has returned to his roots in the music industry, designing distinguished album art that utilizes his signature collage style – see CULL PORTAL Aria-nominated album by Lance Gurisik. Whether he is exploring Greek mythology or the climate crisis, Gorst continues to push the boundaries of paper art, proving that even in a digital age, there is profound power in the tactile and the hand-made.
An in-depth feature in Draft Magazine was published in June, 2025.
CDG is his initials + CREATIVE.
