Sandal Wakefield | Authorised MINI Retailer

Turning classic MINIs into bespoke digital art:
HERE'S SAM'S STORY.

Passion meets creativity in the work of Sam (@sh3dart), a talented CG artist who brings classic MINIs to life through bespoke digital artwork. Combining a lifelong love of MINI cars with a flair for 3D modelling, Sam is proving that imagination and determination can break any barrier.

26 September 2025

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A Life Surrounded by MINIs.

MINIs have been part of Sam’s life for as long as he can remember. “My family have always owned MINIs, whether it was classics in the early ‘80s or early 2000s,” he says. In 2017, Sam bought his own classic Rover MINI Sprite, a 1993 model modified with power steering and a left-foot accelerator so he can drive comfortably despite living with Cerebral Palsy. “It’s become part of the furniture of my life,” he adds.

Creativity Through Challenges.

Living with Cerebral Palsy comes with ups and downs, but Sam has found a way to connect with the world around him. The MINI community has become a space where he can meet people and share his passions, just like anyone else. “It’s my way of getting out into the world and making connections,” he explains.

From Animation Student to CG Artist.

Sam’s journey into digital art began at university, where he studied animation. After a break, he started teaching himself 3D modelling, inspired by the possibilities in gaming and visual effects. His favorite piece, Gridlock, is a vibrant, colourful artwork featuring MINIs in an imaginative cityscape, showing off the depth of his skill and creativity.

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Support, Confidence, and Business Dreams.

Through his work with the Kings Trust, Sam has been able to build confidence and turn his creative passion into a tangible business. From initial ideas to actively pursuing commissions, he’s learned that determination and support can transform creativity into a career.

Looking Ahead.

For the future, Sam wants to keep connecting with more people at car shows, sharing his artwork and spreading a message that disability doesn’t mean limits. “Just because you have a disability doesn’t mean you have to sit inside all the time,” he says. Through his work and community engagement, Sam is showing that creativity, courage, and passion can take you anywhere.

Explore Sam’s unique MINI-inspired digital art and see how his creativity is driving connections, community, and inspiration.

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NEWS

25 YEARS OF THE MODERN MINI. SHARING MINI STORIES.

NEWS

SANDAL MINI X THE JONES FAMILY. BUILT FOR FAMILY ADVENTURE.

SANDAL MINI x THE JONES FAMILY. BUILT FOR FAMILY ADVENTURE.

NEWS

THE PERFECT SUMMER ROAD TRIP.

FIND Sandal Wakefield.

Address

Dewsbury Road, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9BE

Opening Hours

Mon–Fri:08:30 - 18:00
Sat:09:00 - 17:00
Sun:11:00 - 17:00

24 DECEMBER (CHRISTMAS EVE) 8:30am – 2:00pm
25 DECEMBER (CHRISTMAS DAY) CLOSED
26 DECEMBER (BOXING DAY) CLOSED
31 DECEMBER (NY EVE) 8:30am – 2:00pm
1 JANUARY (NEW YEAR’S DAY) CLOSED

Phone

01924 202299

Map

Areas served

Wakefield and the surrounding areas, including Barnsley, Dewsbury, Batley and Pontefract

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Address

Dewsbury Road, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF2 9BE

Opening Hours

Mon–Fri:08:00 - 18:00
Sat:08:00 - 14:00
Sun:CLOSED

Phone

01924 202299

Map

Areas served

Wakefield and the surrounding areas, including Barnsley, Dewsbury, Batley and Pontefract

View map

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