2026 Artist Biography

Hence Bollinger (b. 1960, Florence, New Jersey) is a self-directed glass artist whose work reflects a deep curiosity, physical engagement with material, and a steadfast commitment to process. Without formal training in the arts, she embodies the strength of experiential learning and the enduring presence of women in the field of glass.

A trailblazer from an early age, Bollinger was the only girl in her industrial arts class in 1974 and the sole female member of a boys’ cross country team in high school—experiences that helped shape her resilience, independence, and willingness to move confidently into male-dominated spaces.

Her early exposure to industrial arts planted the foundation for a lifelong engagement with making. In 2009, Bollinger entered the world of glassblowing in Bethlehem, where the immediacy and physicality of the material sparked an enduring passion that continues to drive her practice.

In 2013, her work took a pivotal turn as she began exploring the technique of battuto, inspired by the work of Carlo Scarpa. This influence led her into a deeper investigation of surface, light, and texture—elements that remain central to her work today. She has since expanded her focus to include battuto and cameo engraving, developing a visual language that balances precision with expressive mark-making.

Bollinger has furthered her studies at The Corning Museum of Glass, Chrysler Museum Glass Studio, and Pilchuck Glass School, as well as through private study with renowned glass artist Fritz Dreisbach. These experiences have strengthened her technical approach while reinforcing her commitment to process-driven work.

In 2024, Bollinger began teaching and sharing her knowledge of cold working and battuto at The Corning Museum of Glass. She approaches teaching with the same energy and dedication that defines her studio practice, with the hope that students leave feeling as excited and inspired by cold working as she does. As she steps into this role as an instructor, she does so with a deep sense of gratitude and humility.

Currently based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Bollinger remains an active member of the arts community. She continues to refine her practice through ongoing exploration of glass processes, engaging audiences through demonstrations and an infectious enthusiasm for material, technique, and transformation.