Lisa Watkins

Myshinymadness

Based in West Auckland, Lisa Watkins transforms found and donated objects into bold, layered artworks that blend sculpture, assemblage, and mixed media. Working under the name MyShinyMadness, her practice is raw, reflective, and unapologetically shiny — a vibrant response to the chaos of modern life.

Lisa’s materials range from CDs and nail polish bottles to VHS tapes, toys, and industrial offcuts. Each discarded object is reimagined for its texture, colour, story, and weight. Her work explores eco-feminism, identity, consumerism, and resilience — infused with critique, humour, and nostalgic grit.

After early creative sparks in childhood and careers in hospitality, DJing, and cake design, Lisa returned to art as a way to process, play, and protest. Since 2023, she has gained wide recognition — including First Place at the Waitākere Arts Awards, People’s Choice at multiple shows, a scholarship to The Learning Connexion, and most recently, the 2025 Localised Sustainability Award for her innovative use of salvaged materials.

Her studio practice is grounded in community, sustainability, and storytelling. Whether crafting fine art or leading public projects — like her upcoming sculpture made from 400+ discarded Watercare boots — Lisa’s work champions transformation, making beauty from what others throw away.

Upcycled Butterfly Sculpture, 2025. Created from repurposed CDs and a salvaged mannequin torso, this sculptural tribute honours Aotearoa’s disappearing butterfly species. Inspired by the work of the Moths and Butterflies of New Zealand Trust, the piece transforms discarded plastic into shimmering, iridescent blooms and wing-like forms. Each layered CD fragment and hand-formed rose reflects the fragility and resilience of native pollinators, turning waste into a bold eco-feminist statement on conservation, transformation, and ephemeral beauty. Entirely upcycled — no new plastics used.