Hence Bollinger

Glass Artist

Person in a blue shirt holding a glassblowing pipe in front of a furnace with glassblowing tools in the background.
Person in protective gear using machinery in a workshop

Am I a reluctant artist? A frustrated one? Perhaps both. What I do know is that creativity has always been my playground. From "decorating" my sister’s closet with a bold purple crayon at age 10 to crafting intricate mosaic holiday cards from scraps of colored paper, I’ve always embraced the joy of making.

Everything changed in February 2009 when I stepped into my first glassblowing class. The moment I gathered molten glass from the furnace, I felt electrified—it was a spark I couldn’t ignore. That spark has since become a blazing passion, transforming every creation into a dialogue. Glass speaks to me with its possibilities, its challenges, and its breathtaking ability to change form. Over time, this dialogue has grown into a powerful conversation, fueling my pursuit of crafting functional glassware with a distinct flair.

One of my techniques is Battuto, a traditional Italian carving method I’ve made my own. These hand-carved textures transform glass into a tactile experience, compelling viewers to not just see, but to feel the story etched into every piece. Each work celebrates the magic of creativity and the endless possibilities of the artistic journey.

But my story doesn’t stop there. I refuse to rest on what I’ve already achieved. I’ve studied under some of the best in the field, including the Ferro Brothers,  Ethan Stern and Chris Giordano at The Corning Museum of Glass, Heather Hartle at the Chrysler Museum Glass Studio, and privately with the legendary Fritz Dreisbach. Each experience has sharpened my technique and deepened my understanding of this incredible medium.

For me, “good enough” is never enough. My dedication to growth pushes me to explore, experiment, and share my knowledge with others, constantly striving to elevate both my craft and my aesthetic vision.