Straatsma’s artistic work revolves around exploring the interplay between form, context, function and non-function. I am deeply intrigued by archetypes and objects that have historical, nostalgic or emotional significance, as well as the stories they encompass and reflect the passage of time.
This fascination has resulted in an ongoing series of unique, handmade sculptural objects made of resin. By manipulating volume and shape while maintaining an open skin, I try to evoke a sense of recognition imbued with ambiguity. Through this process, seemingly clear and familiar objects take on new layers of meaning, captivating me by their inherent complexity.
In particular, I find inspiration in archetypal and classical ceramic vases, originating from diverse cultures such as East Asia and Southeast Asia and ancient Europe. I challenge their traditional function, materiality and historical context and reinterpret these vases as contemporary expressions. Like their predecessors, my works serve both as functional objects and canvases for modern interpretations, with symbolic motifs and representations of our times.
Working with resin gives me an unparalleled freedom and immediacy in expressing three-dimensional concepts. It allows me to experiment with open forms, diverse textures and layered compositions, resulting in surfaces that are thick and tactile, almost raw in their appearance.
Developing a distinctive resin technique is an integral part of my work. Each creation follows a meticulous process, from concept development and sketching to mould making, colour mixing and sculpting. This method allows endless variations in construction and structure, all united in a single material.
My artworks have gained recognition and are exhibited in numerous museums and private collections in Europe, Asia and North America. I was born and raised in Dokkum, a town in the north of the Netherlands. After studying at the Design Academy in Eindhoven, I have lived in Rotterdam since 2000, where I work from my studio Straatsma.
