Alessandro Mendini Venini SHOWROOM AFFAIRS

The creative genius of Alessandro Mendini

Alessandro Mendini, an iconic figure in the world of contemporary design, has left an indelible mark on the Italian artistic and cultural panorama. Born in 1931 in Milan, Mendini undertook a path of study and research that led him to become one of the most successful designers in the world. influential figures of the 20th century. His architectural training, enriched by an infinite curiosity & agrave; for visual arts and design, has shaped his creative vision, transforming everyday objects into functional works of art. His career is has been characterized by continuous experimentation and innovation, which has contributed to redefining the aesthetic canons of contemporary design.

An icon of contemporary design

The vast range of Alessandro Mendini's creations ranges from architecture to furniture, from graphics to industrial design. His career is dotted with collaborations with prestigious brands, establishing himself as a master in interpreting and reinterpreting the design object. Among its most important partnerships significant we remember:

• Alessi: A long-lasting and prolific union has led to the creation of design icons such as the "Anna G." corkscrew, the "Practica" kettle and the "Dry" cutlery series. Mendini has infused a touch of irony and color into Alessi objects, reinterpreting them with playful shapes and lively patterns.
• Magis: The collaboration with Magis gave life to revolutionary chairs such as the "Sella Perpetua" (1979) and the "Taj Mahal" (1986), which have become symbols of Postmodernism. Mendini experimented with materials and shapes, challenging design conventions and shaping objects with a bold and non-conformist character.
• Swatch: Mendini also left his mark in the world of watches with Swatch, creating extravagant and pop models such as the "Swatch Big Bang" (1987) and the "Swatch Camouflage" (1988) . His designs have contributed to the success of the brand, mixing art and design in a playful and accessible way
• Venini: In the field of artistic glass, the collaboration with Venini has produced masterpieces such as the "Prato" vase (1989) and the "Tokio" series (1991). Mendini explored the potential of glass, mixing bright colors and eclectic patterns to create unique and precious objects.
• Philips: Mendini revolutionized the world of lighting with Philips, designing iconic lamps such as the "Pite Lamp" (1983) and the "Random Light" (1986). His lamps stand out for their bold shapes and use of bright colors, challenging the traditional conception of lighting and transforming the lamps into true works of art

In addition to design brands, Mendini has left an indelible mark on  following fields:

• Architecture: he designed innovative buildings and interiors, such as the "Villa Tetama" in Manerba del Garda (1985) and the "Forum des Halles" in Paris (1986).
• Fashion: He created clothing and accessories for brands such as Hermès and Fiorucci, bringing his creative flair to the world of fashion.
• Art: He has collaborated with artists such as Mimmo Paladino and Krzysztof Wodiczko, creating works of art that blend design and visual arts

Alessandro Mendini's collaborations have profoundly marked the design panorama, demonstrating his inexhaustible creativity and its ability to reinvent any object. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of designers, leaving an indelible mark in the history of Italian and international design.

In the Ciat Design catalog it is It is possible to find a selection of Mendini's best works, which embody his bold and visionary vision of contemporary design. Thanks to his extraordinary creativity and its ability to combine functionality and aesthetics, Alessandro Mendini has left an indelible mark on the world of design, inspiring generations of designers and art and furniture enthusiasts.

The story of Venini

Venini is a renowned brand in the world of interior design and glass art. Founded in 1921 in Murano, the Venetian island famous for its glassmaking tradition, Venini has alwaays embodied excellence and innovation in Italian glass art. Its history is rooted in a long artisan tradition that dates back to the 13th century, when the master glassmakers of Murano began producing glass artefacts of the highest quality. Over the years, Venini has been able to combine craftsmanship with the influences of contemporary design, becoming a symbol of style and refinement.

The distinctive features of Venini

Venini stands out for its ability to to create one-of-a-kind works of art, which combine the Murano glassmaking tradition with the most contemporary trends. innovations of contemporary design. Its products are characterized by elegant shapes, bright colors and superior quality. impeccable craftsmanship. Among the iconic models that have contributed to making the brand famous, we include the chandeliers from the "Fazzoletto" series, designed in the 1950s by Fulvio Bianconi, which stand out for their sinuous shape and bright colours. Other iconic pieces include the works of artists and designers of the caliber of Tobia Scarpa, Carlo Scarpa and Ettore Sottsass, who have left an indelible mark on the contemporary design landscape.

Continuous innovation and passion for glass

Today, Venini continues to be a point of reference in the world of artistic glass and high-level design. Its headquarters in Murano is a creative laboratory in which expert master glassmakers work glass with passion and skill, creating unique pieces that reflect the beauty and elegance of Venetian glass art. The constant search for innovation and attention to detail are fundamental values that guide Venini's work, allowing the brand to keep up with the times and continue to amaze and inspire design lovers from all over the world.