Rob Toller | Vessels for Spheres

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Rob Toller, “Vessels for Spheres,” 2024

(courtesy of Irma de Visser/Rob Toller)

Reception and artist talk on Sunday, April 14, 2024 from 3 to 5 pm.

The Art of Honouring the Beauty of Nature, Vessels for Spheres

Using found objects, mostly natural forms discovered during his wanderings, Kimberley-based sculptor extraordinaire Rob Toller has created a collection of small sculptures that honour the exquisite beauty of nature. Rob is excited to announce his upcoming solo art exhibit "Vessels for Spheres”, open to inspire visitors at Art Gallery Kimberley in BC’s Best Small Town from April 4-14, 2014.

Through his intentional wanderings in the natural world, Rob draws inspiration from the fascinating surfaces and lines provided by nature. His approach to working with found objects is focused on honouring and highlighting their intrinsic beauty, with little alteration or imposition. Rob explains, “I’m drawn to raw, organic textures and surfaces, and I’m a big fan of rust. I often incorporate natural elements like wood and stone into my metal sculptures. The balance and rhythm of natural forms guide my art, allowing the materials to speak for themselves.“ Ultimately, Rob’s artworks serve as a showcase of the beauty of the natural world as its own sculpture gallery, filled with endless inspiration.

Rob’s creative journey began in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies where, according to Rob, “Regular explorations of the front ranges in all seasons led to the discovery of spectacular root structures, weathered by years in the elements – chinook winds, fire and weather extremes.” Recognising the necessity to elevate these natural sculptures with complementary bases so they can be presented and fully appreciated, Rob took up welding and blacksmithing, attracted by metal’s strength and contrasting properties. As a self-taught artist fuelled by curiosity, Rob increasingly gravitated towards working with metal and became intrigued by the possibilities of this medium. Amassing an eclectic collection of found metal objects, he creates one-of-a-kind figurative sculptures while preserving the natural patina of these objects as a historical record of their life. “The long history of mining and forestry in The Kootenays provides for a wide variety of materials to be gathered; industrial salvage scattered in many unexpected places, hidden and sometimes buried treasures”, Rob reflects.

Rob’s biggest challenge often lies in safely harvesting and transporting these pieces back to his studio. You may happen upon him in the early morning hours, walking remote trails while lugging unwieldy pieces of wood, steel or stone. The discovery of new materials and shapes serves as a catalyst for his creative exploration. Rob is drawn to adventure both in the natural world and the realm of creativity, always wondering “What if I …?”

Within this exhibit, Rob joins together his enjoyment in the creative process with his love for nature. By incorporating spherical shapes, such as stones and steel balls, Rob introduces contrast, while alluding to the start of spring and new life. His return to using pewter adds a dynamic element, creating unique forms with each casting.

Don't miss this opportunity to surround yourself with the beauty of Rob's sculptures — a heartfelt celebration of the natural world and the creative process.