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Toland Sand
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An innovator in the use of dichroic glass and polished crystal, Toland’s approach to his pieces is one of exploration, always looking for form and energy. His perspective is one of trying to reveal an interior complexity while not forgetting simplicity and elegance of form. The attention goes in and then back out, attempting to take in the totality of the piece. It is like architecture for consciousness. Access is given to the interior of the solid object and then one can exit, just like an architectural form. One’s attention becomes the fulcrum of the piece’s existence. It becomes a reflection of the viewer.
Influences and sources of inspiration can be found in ancient and contemporary architecture and sculpture. Toland spent five years in Greece, attending high school in Athens and traveling as much as possible. Stone formations were everywhere, in both natural and manmade forms. An ancient marble quarry was just down the street from his home. Laborers chiseling marble for municipal projects were a common sight. Seeing ancient sites with remnants of temples were simply part of everyday life. The Temple at Sounion, the Parthenon, the Agora were monuments to the golden age of Athens
Toland was born in Berkeley, California in 1949 and has fond memories and impressions of the beauty of that state as only a little child can experience. Though he left in 1954 when his father joined the CIA, the influence of Carmel and the Big Sur coastline was hard to forget and he always felt at home when the family returned every couple of years to Carmel Valley. He graduated from Colorado College in 1971 with a degree in Philosophy.
Toland’s New Hampshire studio and home are on four wooded acres. He lives there with his wife, Debbe Palmer. Their combined five kids are scattered around the country. He also maintains a studio in Carmel Valley, CA where he retreats for a few months every year.
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