Robèrt Franken is an internationally exhibiting artist and long-standing Artist in Residence at The Learning Connexion. Born in The Hague in the Netherlands, he comes from a remarkable lineage of artists and grew up surrounded by creative practice, including time spent in studios connected to the Panorama Mesdag Museum.
He studied at the Free Academy of Arts in The Hague before emigrating to New Zealand, where he has continued to develop a prolific practice spanning painting, pastels, charcoal, aquarelle, textiles, and glass engraving. Over the decades his work has been exhibited widely across New Zealand and internationally, including in Japan, Switzerland, Australia, China, and the Netherlands.
Robèrt brings decades of experience and an exploratory approach to art making and creative practice, encouraging students to see creative practice as an ongoing journey of discovery. He describes painting as a process where each finished work leads naturally to the next, reflecting a continual search for authenticity and personal expression.
His practice often explores the space between abstraction and suggestion, creating works that hint at language, movement, and cultural connections while remaining open to interpretation. Through his presence at TLC, Franken contributes to the school’s vibrant art school and studio environment with his open studio, sharing insights from a lifetime dedicated to art.
For enrolled students check the calendar for scheduled Artist in Residence availability.
Robert’s studio is located beside the entrance to the Grange building. While he does not keep fixed studio hours, his door is open whenever he is onsite and available to connect with students.
