Introducing Claus Stangl

Sydney-based Claus Stangl is a celebrated visual artist, film maker, Archibald Packing Prize winner and quintessential 80's kid.

A two-time finalist in the Archibald Portrait prize, Claus spent 18 years working as a creative in some of the world’s top companies - like Facebook, Clemenger BBDO and Dare London - before deciding to work as an artist full time.

In our Q&A, we discuss his work, rituals and other crucial matters - like his favourite undiscovered haunts on King Street, sizzling pork, and feeling delicate on Sunday mornings.

Claus in the Bellwether Blue Unisex Crew Jumper by Sorry Thanks I Love You.

Can you tell us a bit about your background? Where did you grow up, where do you live now and what happened in between?

I grew up in the south east of England, on the border of suburbia and the countryside. I was lucky to be an 80’s kid - we had the best cartoons. I filled my time watching movies (it rained a lot) and riding my BMX in the woods (when the sun came out).

Fast forward a few years. I studied art foundation at Kingston Uni and then got a BA in advertising/graphics at Bucks college (Buckinghamshire New University). In my 20’s I lived in London, working as an art director in advertising agencies.

I used art directing to help me move to Australia in 2008. First Melbourne, and then Sydney. The inner west is my neighbourhood. I love it. It's full of my kind of people - open-minded creative misfits of all shapes and colours.

Taika Waititi by Claus Stangl, Acrylic on Canvas, 2022.

You’re a full time artist. How are you spending your days?

My days are pretty structured and pretty simple - I think they have to be when you're working for yourself. I'm generally awake at 5.30am. Walk the dogs and gym before 8am. Bit of life admin then an hour of screen-writing around 9am. Then I'm in the studio 10am-4pm. I end the day with another dog walk, dinner and hangout with my missus.

Claus in the Dalston Mill Blue Long Vest by Sorry Thanks I Love You.

Tell us about some of the projects you’re working on at the moment?

My priority is visual arts, working towards a solo show mid 2025. I'm playing with plastic toy guns and cheap water pistols from the dollar shop. The vibrant colours and detailed forms, graphically they look strong and interesting, especially when seen up close on a large scale.

On a deeper level I'm curious about our relationship with play and violence. It's an interesting human behaviour, borne from thousands of years of storytelling. Conflict and high stakes give all stories drama. In childhood this materializes as goodies and baddies. I'm working with toy guns from discount stores where AK47s are packaged as suitable for ages 3+. Bizarre.

I do however oscillate between art and film. The film work is a much longer game for me. I'm currently writing a screenplay for a black comedy feature and also working on a story outlines for a couple other ideas.

Bang Bang - 2025 WIP by Claus Stangl

What’s been your favourite creative project to date?

I think the current projects that I'm working on right now are my favourite. For me that's an important thing to aim for - have that thing you're doing right now be the thing that excites you the most. That way I feel inspired to attack every day.

What’s your secret vice?

Well, that's a secret.

Claus in the Hard Black Hooded Detail Jacket by Sorry Thanks I Love You.

When was the last time you said sorry, thanks, I love you to someone? What was the context?

Probably last Sunday morning to my fiancé, when I was feeling delicate and emotional after a seriously huge night at Ministry Of Sound gig the night before.

Most inspiring creative works for you in the world right now?

I get particularly inspired by work that takes time and a learned craft to produce something of excellence. For me I'm less keen on fast art that lacks refined talent to produce.

Sam Simmons by Claus Stangl. Acrylic on Canvas, 2021.

Favourite undiscovered haunt in Sydney?

Best Gourmet on King Street in Newtown. It's an authentic tasting, family-run, no thrills, BYO, Chinese restaurant. Try any of the Sizzling dishes.

Best drink / snack / meal out you’ve had in 2025?

The Lucky Prawn, the Chinese restaurant inside Hawkes Brewery in Marrickville, do amazing Hot & Numbing Chicken Wings. Smash down a couple plates with an ice cold beer.