Opulence and sensuality pervades François Tiran’s work, who believes in “less is a bore”.

He works primarily in oils on canvas, but is not confined to that: pastels, sculpture and use of mixed media are also in his repertoire. His style is abstract symbolism.

François was an art lecturer for 22 years before becoming an artist full time. 

He has exhibited regularly for 10 years and continuously with ArtKaroo, and with Bottega gallery in Oudtshoorn as well as in Stellenbosch, Worcester and George. 

“Terming himself an abstract symbolist, his artworks reflect the hewn sandstone of Feather palaces, the hot colours of sun, veldt and open skies; offset often with sultry female forms and references to creation, stellar constellations and, equine studies.“

Nuances reminiscent of Klimt and Hunderwasser are offset by earthiness which reflects the sandstone edifices of his home.  Despite his passion for the female form and often generous use of deep reds and golds, his is a philosophical scientific mind, and much musing pre-empts each work of art.

With ancestral roots in France, but a family history dating back almost 200 years in the area, much of his work is informed by the rich contrasts of life in Oudtshoorn, where Art Nouveau architecture and fittings from the boom years contrast with the ancient rock formations and San culture.

Interview with Francois Tiran on DEKAT

Man of Red and Gold

Warming up with Francois Tiran (Facebook)

Newsclip Oudtshoorn Koerant 2015

Publications:

“Wyle” art and short stories by Marina Eilers

De Kat Luuks 2022/23 (ISBN 9780620368520)


Art