Born and bred in Paris, Aristide arrived on Murano in 1986 to study the Venetian island’s renowned, centuries-old glassmaking techniques. Originally a painter, he saw glassmaking as an extension of this, and it became his preferred material. His chandeliers are inspired by both painting and glassmaking which mutually interact and are each pushed to their limits. “Aristide observes everything consistently, methodically, analytically,” says Sylvie Plassnig, his partner of 19 years. “He is always open to inspiration and his oeuvre is completely different to anything else.”
Aristide’s commitment to the craft is palpable – and it is forever crystallised in each of his masterpieces.
“Meeting a customer is always exciting,” he says. “It involves balancing their requirements with what I feel for them. I want to create works of art that fit them exactly, and bring happiness into their home. Using my intuition and sensitivity, I quickly conceptualise the artwork they’re looking for.”

Open to all inspiration, Najean observes the world around him with a great curiosity. He is filled by a whole universe of images which marks his personal style. Mastering glass, he knows how far he can push his sketch and to which extension the material will retain the sculpted shape. He draws his sketches on the ground before making his pieces. Then, as the glass takes shape, the chalk dust fades under his steps. The sculpture keeping its secret.

From canvas to canvas, Aristide Najean develops his research, refining his expression throughout more than two thousands paintings.
His themes evoke his curiosity and fascination for human nature. Aware of the role of the artist in society, he offers his emotion to meet that of others.
Najean’s inspiration varies both in subjects and styles. Using powerful and bold brushstrokes, he represents human nature through contrast and colors, featuring a man made of passion and light. The glass is added to the rich palette; painting and sculpture are now one.

Holding high his artist’s mission, Najean shared his passion for glass and opened his workshop to schools, apprentices and students. Persuaded that art awakens the spirit, in 1995 he created an edition company to promote sculpture in everyday life. Since 2011, in collaboration with architects and property developers, he elaborates concepts of decoration and signage for common spaces in buildings, convinced that art enhances the space and improves the quality of life of its dwellers.