RUUD VAN STRATEN
UNIQUE PAINTINGS & DRAWINGS

ORIGINAL OILPAINTINGS

Discover unique paintings ,
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The Dancing Faun: Figurative Art with a Mythological and Surreal Twist
What happens when ancient Greek mythological statues are reimagined with a surreal twist? As if recently uncovered during an underwater expedition, the Dancing Faun (1st century CE) emerges as a mesmerizing artifact. This lustful woodland creature, a follower of Dionysos, the god of wine, is depicted in frenzied dance, embodying wild artistic expression. With its chiseled physique caught in rotational movement and surrounded by excited fish, the Faun seems to echo its aquatic rediscovery. Set against a Greek-Persian style mosaic, this reinterpretation fuses history and surrealism into a vivid masterpiece.


Oilpaint and gold leaf on canvas

Dancing Faun 90x120 cm
Dancing Faun 90x120 cm
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A Midnight's Paradise: Figurative Art with Mythological Elements
A Midnight's Paradise – Oil and Gold Leaf on Canvas This enchanting artwork features a Greek-period torso, inspired by an original discovered bust, illuminated by the ethereal glow of luminous birds of paradise. Their light brings the figure to life amidst a shadowy colourful forest, bathed in golden moonlight. The blend of oil and gold leaf enhances the mystical midnight atmosphere, fusing ancient Greek artistry with surreal elegance.

a Midnight's Paradise 90x120 cm
a Midnight's Paradise 90x120 cm
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Menelaos and Patroclus: Figurative Art Inspired by Greek Mythology
Menelaos and Patroclus – Oil on Canvas, 120 x 90 cm This stunning oil painting captures the tragic death of Patroclus, betrayed by Menelaos in the chaos of war. The moment is vividly portrayed with a fatal arrow lodged in Patroclus’s chest, symbolizing both his sacrifice and the brutality of conflict. Steeped in a mythical aesthetic, the composition evokes deep sorrow and betrayal, central themes in ancient Greek mythology. Diagonal, dreamlike clouds streak the sky, creating a celestial atmosphere, with pink and gold hues radiating divine luminosity. This ethereal dreamscape highlights the transcendence of mortal suffering, presenting the death of Patroclus as both heroic and heart-wrenching. Bridging the mortal and divine, the artwork immerses the viewer in a timeless narrative inspired by Greek mythology. The bright orange-pink background, echoed in the frame, harmonizes with the purple tones to create a unified, majestic composition. Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts of mythical, narrative-driven art, this piece fuses storytelling with visual splendor.

Menelaos & Patrocles 90x120 cm.
Menelaos & Patrocles 90x120 cm.
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Paradiso: Memories of Beach Life on Naxos
It used to be normal to discover the world and meet people through long-distance flights and exciting encounters with new cultures and friends. However, a global pandemic, an international energy crisis, and a changing mindset about our interaction with the world and the climate are reshaping our lives. Is it still okay to fly everywhere? How do these changes affect our memories? Will we remember our experiences and friends, or will they fade away?
In the triptych Paradiso, I depict beach life on Naxos as it once was for me, now slowly fading like a snapshot in an old photo album. This series, oil on canvas, features a newly added third piece, with possibly more to come as my memories evolve. The background of these three paintings continues like an endless horizon when placed side by side.

Paradiso I 90x120 cm
Paradiso I 90x120 cm
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Paradiso II 90x120 cm
Paradiso II 90x120 cm
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Paradiso III 90x120 cm
Paradiso III 90x120 cm
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Dark Angel Golden shower
Figurative Art: Angelic Man in a Golden Rain
A free artwork depicting a man adorned with leather straps and an angelic aura under a golden rain. The piece captures the ethereal beauty and strength of the male figure, combining elements of grace and power. The intricate details of the leather straps and the golden rain create a mesmerizing and dynamic composition that draws the viewer in.

Dark Angel Golden Shower60 x 80 cm
Dark Angel Golden Shower60 x 80 cm



DECAY: Contradictions and Renewal in Figurative Art
DECAY: A story of contradictions, decay, and renewal, of beauty and old age. Four discarded and damaged frames, once showpieces in an authentic brown pub, found new life after being abandoned in a second-hand shop. Inspired by photos of walls covered with posters, this series explores the theme of old and new, decay and beauty.
The refurbished frames retain their age, with visible yet illegible texts painted on a background of torn pamphlets. Like a phoenix from the flames, four beautiful men, impeccable Dandys, emerge, unfazed by time's ravages. The paisley motif on the back of the paintings references the past. Finished with a thick layer of resin, the paintings seal the decay and beauty of the nineteenth-century men against time's ravages.
This series aims to show the ease with which we discard what is damaged, forgetting its past beauty and value. Restore that value, give it new allure, and honor its DECAY.

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Dark Lights: Figurative Art in Oil on Canvas
Dark Lights is a captivating series in oil on canvas that explores different shades of dark combined with bright white to depict various men. This series delves into themes of lust, mystery, passion, and anger using a limited color palette. Each piece in the Dark Lights series showcases the emotional depth and complexity of the male form through the interplay of light and shadow.
Oilpaintings 2017/2018

Discobolos
Discobolos
Dancer
Dancer
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Men on Canvas: Figurative Art in Oil
Men on Canvas: Just average men, dressed or naked, depicted in oil on canvas. This series captures the essence of everyday men, showcasing their natural beauty and simplicity through the medium of oil painting. Each piece highlights the unique characteristics and individuality of the male form, whether clothed or nude.
oilpaintings from 2016 till now.

Tired Man 50 x70 cm
Tired Man 50 x70 cm
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Strapped 120x180cm
Strapped 120x180cm
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Cinquecento 120x180 cm
Cinquecento 120x180 cm

 


Hommage to Mum and Dad, oil on canvas 120 x 180 cm.

mum is not for sale
mum is not for sale
Dad also not for sale
Dad also not for sale
 
 
 
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