Literally born from a family of artisans, Marco Rando is adding to the essential creativity cultivated in the art department.

Rando is originally from Brooklyn, New York. However he lived in Reston as a child when the area was not developed. He returned to Brooklyn to go to school at Pratt University where he lived with his grandmother.

“Grandma lived in the hood,” said Rando.

He gained street smarts while going to college since Brooklyn is known for its toughness. 

Rando studied fashion at first. His interests spread in different directions when he was trying to decide between industrial design and sculpture. In the end, Rando reluctantly chose industrial design following a death in his family.

“One of my few regrets, but a very mild one at that.” said Rando.

Art still made a comeback into his life. Rando worked as a craftsman from 1985-91. In 1991 he made a wood carving, a model of a home. Four years later, Rando exhibited his work in New York City. Rando still presents artwork. In December, he will show his and his father’s artwork at the Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria.  

“With an open-minded imagination anything is possible.”