ABOUT
A PASSION
FOR CRAFTSMANSHIP
Red Earth is a showcase of awards, trophies, and sculptures. Created with meticulous attention to detail and passionate, exquisite craftsmanship by goldsmith Eric Tollner, a designing and manufacturing jeweller with over 30 years of experience in creating beautiful, sought after and timeless designs.
Welcome to Red Earth, a design studio nestled in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa. Specialising in the creating of bespoke awards, trophies, and sculptures, Red Earth is the culmination of passion, expertise, and a dedication to excellence.
At the heart of Red Earth is Eric Tollner, a seasoned artist and designer with over three decades of experience. With a fervent commitment to exquisite craftsmanship, Eric infuses each creation with a unique blend of artistry and skill.
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More than mere physical objects, the awards and sculptures embody moments of excellence, productivity, and the culmination of hard work. We understand the significance of these symbols, which is why we take great pride in collaborating closely with our clients.
By listening attentively to your ideas and guiding you through the creative process, from the initial sketch to the final piece presented, we ensure that each work of art captures the essence of the occasion or achievement it commemorates.
THE STORY
Eric's journey began in a humble farming community in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal, where he developed a profound appreciation for art and craftsmanship. His early years instilled in him a deep-seated passion for design and a love for working with his hands. Trained as a goldsmith, at the age of 21 Eric qualified with distinctions as a designing and manufacturing jeweller.
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The years thereafter were spent further mastering the intricate art of jewellery manufacturing. Following his heart to constantly learn and explore new creative horizons, Eric transitioned from jewellery to larger more sculptural work, applying the same meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship to his creations.
Today, Red Earth stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and innovation.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Artist, adventurer, and creative visionary.
Eric’s creative journey extends far beyond the studio, his multifaceted passions transcend the boundaries of traditional mediums. As a keen photographer, Eric captures moments of beauty and inspiration through his lens, covering a broad range of genres with a keen eye for detail and creativity.
As an avid ultra-distance and endurance athlete, he has covered many thousands of miles across the country in his running shoes, on his bicycle, or in a canoe, taking in some extraordinarily challenging and stunning landscapes along the way. Mountains and rivers are his playground and muse, igniting his sense of adventure and providing a canvas for storytelling through imagery.
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In his own words, “I am a goldsmith, artist, and sculptor by trade, a photographer by passion, and an adventurer by heart. I am always learning, always growing, constantly curious and pursuing my dreams with passion, chasing life and all that counts."
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His philosophy can be distilled into three words.
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Curiosity – to keep pushing the boundaries of creativity and exploration, always chasing life, always willing to learn.
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Patience – keeping focused and present to see the challenges through.
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And gratitude – a profound appreciation for the richness of life and the meaningful encounters it brings, shaping his outlook with humility and joy.
