Career
He is a figurative artist and sculptor, who creates bronze sculptures in which he unites force and movement. In 1985 Van Straaten obtained his second-level teaching certificate in Drawing and Handicrafts. He continued his education in Rotterdam at the Willem de Kooning Academy.
Van Straaten is intrigued by the ancient Egyptians, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
In addition he is inspired by modern dance but stimuli from everday life are still his main sources. His early works had an very impressionistic feel.
Gradually his work changed and nowadays his sculptures are recognized for their strong lines and movement. Not only private collectors are interested in Van Straaten"s sculptures.
Also many companies and municipalities own his sculptures.
Highlights in his career are the unveiling of Stier in 2000, a monumental sculpture on a roundabout in Capelle aan den IJssel and the unveiling of Samengaan by Princess Máxima in 2003. Van Straaten"s studio is located in Rotterdam. Frans van Straaten has exhibited in The Netherlands and abroad.
A selection of exhibitions:
TEFAF, Maastricht, The Netherlands
Miljonair Fair, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Personal Area Networks Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Art & Antiques Fair, "s Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
Zamalek Art, Caïro, Egypte
Dutch Art & Business Event, Doha, Qatar
Lineart Gent, Gent, België
Entre Rêve et Réalité, Monte Carlo, Monaco
Feriarte, Sevilla, Spanje
Art Expo New York City, United States of America
His work has also been shown in Switzerland, Germany, France and China.