Frank Letterie was born in The Hague in 1931 and became one of the most striking Dutch sculptors of the second half of the twentieth century. He trained at the Royal Academy of Art in his native city, where he was taught by Toon Dupuis and Frits Eschauzier, among others. His exceptional skill in modeling was noticed early on: using clay and wax, he imbued human and animal forms with an expressive vitality that would later become his signature.

Letterie resolutely embraced figuration at a time when abstraction and experimental movements dominated the art world. His sculptures, often portraits, animals, and small human figures, demonstrate a keen attention to character and movement. The sculptures are typically cast in bronze and are characterized by a loose, tactile texture in which the marks of the hand remain visible. This creates a vibrant surface that lends the work an almost breathing quality.

In addition to his independent work, he gained recognition through numerous commissioned portraits of prominent Dutch figures from the worlds of culture, science, and politics. He consistently captured not only the likeness but also the personality and charisma of the subject. His portraits of writers and artists are well-known, as are those of anonymous figures, who acquire a certain monumentality precisely through his treatment.

Letterie also developed into an inspiring teacher. He was affiliated with the Rijksakademie van beeldende kunsten in Amsterdam, where he mentored generations of young artists in the tradition of modeling and the craftsmanship of bronze casting. He tirelessly passed on his belief in the power of figurative art, in a time when this was not a given.

His oeuvre encompasses both intimate, small works that fit comfortably in the hand, and monumental sculptures in public spaces. They can be seen in various places in the Netherlands: in parks, squares, and at institutions, where his human and animal figures still invite closeness and touch. His work is also held in museum collections, including the Rijksmuseum and the Museum Beelden aan Zee.

Frank Letterie is considered a master of small sculpture and a champion of figuration. His sculptures exude craftsmanship, warmth, and humanity, making him a key figure in post-war Dutch sculpture.