Rob Panepinto, also known as "p0ng," discovered the art of glassblowing at Urban Glass in the mid-1990s and has been pursuing his passion ever since. Over the years, he has honed his craft through teaching and collaborating with other artists, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible with glass.
Recently, Robert embarked on a new chapter in his artistic journey by returning to school to pursue an undergraduate degree at Ramapo College in New Jersey. There, he built a glass furnace using mostly donated and recycled materials, showcasing his commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness. Through his studies, he developed a deep interest in the intersection of craft and technology, exploring the possibilities of using digital tools to enhance his art.
This curiosity led him to a residency at the Gardenship, a new arts center in Kearny, New Jersey, where he continued to experiment and innovate. While the inaugural program was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Robert's creativity and resourcefulness led him to discover the world of crypto art and NFTs. Through this new avenue, he has been able to continue progressing as an artist even during times when physical glassmaking has been difficult or impossible.
Now, Robert's passion for glassmaking is matched only by his desire to bridge the gap between art and technology. Through his work with NFTs and the global community, he is forging new connections and exploring new frontiers in the world of art.