Born and raised in Paris, Justine Menard’s creative journey began with a passion for fashion design and jewellery, eventually leading her to the enchanting world of glassblowing. Her early career saw her working as a stylist in Paris and London, followed by a deeper dive into jewellery design with courses at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and Haute École de Joaillerie in Paris. However, it was a serendipitous encounter in New York that would shape Menard’s future path.
While passing by UrbanGlass in Brooklyn, she discovered the art of glassblowing, a medium that captivated her with its beauty, elegance and grace. This pivotal moment introduced her to a whole new world – one that was far more prominent in the United States than in her native France. Inspired by the work of Agustina Ros, who would later become her teacher, Menard relocated to Barcelona. There, she honed her craft at the Barcelona Glass Studio, learning under Ros and participating in various workshops.
“I have worked with glass for a couple of years now, but I feel you never really finish learning; it’s endless and amazing at the same time,” Menard shares, reflecting on her ongoing journey with this challenging yet rewarding medium. Her work primarily revolves around jewellery and objects, each piece exuding a purity and magic inspired by organic, feminine shapes. “My audience really connects to the poetry of glass and its beauty. I feel very grateful for all my clients who resonate with my art,” Menard says.
Menard’s transition from fashion to glass was a natural progression, fuelled by her desire to express the myriad ideas in her mind. “I have always been creative and love working with my hands. On the side of my stylist job, I was doing jewellery with crystals and rocks, and after the pandemic I decided to focus more on this side and leave the fashion world,” she explains.
Her venture into object design began almost by chance when a friend asked her to create wine glasses for a dinner party. Despite never having done it before, Justine rose to the challenge and crafted 30 wine glasses, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her artistic career. “Glass teaches us that there is no limit, and we can always expand. I’m always open to expanding my art and my technique,” she adds.
Drawing inspiration from brands like Griegst, known for its unique vision and design, Menard’s work is a blend of historical and contemporary influences that add a touch of whimsy without sacrificing practicality.
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