Chris Pantano

Born in Sydney,1948 Chris is a self-taught artist-craftsman working with glass using kiln forming fusing casting and blowing techniques.

"I have a non-traditional approach to glass as a material through which I create objects mostly non-functional. My "mood of the day " plays a major role in determining what I will create. This allows me to take full advantage of the various qualities of glass as I coax the material into a form which is truly expressive of my creativity at that moment.

Much of the inspiration for my work comes not only from the special qualities of the glass itself, but also from the rich diversity of Australia's natural environment the rainforest, the Great Barrier Beef and the outback. My interest in philosophy and the Art/Craft of past and tribal cultures along with my love of drawing, play a major role in the direction and development of my work.  I create the designs in layers within the glass much the same as a painter would on his canvas." 

Chris has been showcasing his work since 1985 and has been exhibited throughout Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the United States of America.

He has won numerous glass awards and received National and International recognition.

His work is represented in permanent collections at Australia's Parliament House in Canberra, the Art Galleries of Queensland, Northern Territory and Wagga Wagga, The National Gallery of Victoria, LaTrobe Regional Gallery, "Collection Ludwig" Hanover, Germany and the Koganezaki Glass Museum, Kamomura, Japan.