Renowned South African artist Yiull Damaso, celebrated for his Nelson Mandela portraits and diverse creative ventures, has a career spanning art, design, and cultural commentary. Guided by a passion for artistry and pushing creative boundaries, Yiull’s work is a lifelong exploration of art.
Yiull Eyewear is an artistic odyssey blending art and functionality. Inspired by iconic “Easy Rider” sunglasses, Yiull’s collection transforms eyewear into canvases of self-expression. With nine models in three colors, the collection suits diverse tastes and moods, from bold statements to understated classics. Each piece reflects Yiull’s innovative and culturally resonant designs, inviting wearers to embrace individuality and creativity.
Explore Yiull Eyewear and discover the intersection of art and fashion.
The
68's
This model is name after the year I was born. Some numbers have a nice ring to them and 68 is up there with the best of them. 1968, a lot happened on planet Earth that year, just ask the Oracle, Google. It is considered one of the most tumultuous single years in our history, just saying…
The
Avondale
This model is named after the area I grew up in and the school I went to in Zimbabwe. At that stage of my life, it was all I knew. I had a group of friends I was close to – the best of them, Alan Foster, is still in my life to this day. He’s absent from the picture of those friends in the cards that follow as he was probably off being naughty somewhere.
The
Bentolino
These sunglasses are named using my grandfather’s pet name for my father. My grandfather, Felice Colombo was from Torino, Piemonte in the north of Italy. My artistic genes are from him. The stories my parents tell of him describe him as an enchanting character. I only got to spend a little time with my Nonno Felice, and yes, he really was a fascinating man! My dad and my Nonno got along very well, which meant a lot to my mom and was fun for my sister and me.
The
Daniella
This model is named after my darling sister. We’re very close. She is my moral compass and pulls no punches telling me so if I step out of line and I am the same with her. I love her very much, always… I can barely watch her two daughters in any competitive endeavour as it reduces me to tears. I put two L’s in the spelling of her name on the frame, she’s going to be so mad!
The
Kato's
These frames are named after the Asian butler character from the Pink Panther film series, the ones with Peter Sellers as Inspector Clouseau. They had a real impact on me. I loved the artistic haphazard comedy and how Kato would randomly attack Inspector Clouseau to keep him alert and combat ready for any occasion, resulting in the complete destruction of Clousaeu’s apartment.
The
Mantis
These sunglasses are named after one of the small model cars from my childhood collection. It was a light metallic green, unusual in its design, from the early 70’s. I loved it because it was so different to any other car I had. Sadly it was stolen off me when I was a child on a beach in Mozambique by a grown man!
The
Pagoda
This model is named after the nickname given to that oh-so-beautiful classic Mercedes from the 60’s. I really love classic cars. My first and second cars were both classics, an Alfa Romeo Giulia from 1971 and a 1967 Lancia Fulvia 1300 Rally. The Pagoda is still a favourite of mine to this day and hopefully someday one will be parked in my humble garage. These glasses are respectfully named in honour of that glorious classic.
The
Sweeney
These sunglasses are named after the influential, for me, TV series I watched in the 70’s. It was a British crime series. I loved the way they handled themselves, the way they spoke and dressed, even the car they drove…a Ford Granada. What did I know, I was 10…
The
Verutin
This model is named using my grandfather’s pet name for my mother. My grandfather, Felice Colombo was from Torino, Piemonte in the north of Italy. I get my artistic genes from him. The stories my parents tell of him describe what a wonderful character he was. I only got to spend a little time with my Nonno Felice, and that was enough to see that yes, he really was a fascinating man!
The art behind the eyewear
The Yiull sunwear collection offers organic CR39 sun-lenses with 100% UVA & UVB protection, with 85 – 100% blue-light absorption with the added feature of back surface blue/purple anti-reflective coating, enhancing the performance of these high quality sun-lenses. Available in a wide variety of colours and intensity to suit your mood and needs.
The Artist behind the collection
Yiull Damaso is an extraordinary artist whose creative journey knows no bounds. With a lifelong devotion to artistry, Yiull fearlessly explores captivating paths, defying traditional norms. He is well known for his series of Nelson Mandela portraits, including the controversial ‘Dreaded Madiba’ and the critically acclaimed ‘The Night Watch!’ exhibited at Constitution Hill.
Now, driven by unwavering excitement, Yiull channels his boundless creativity into the realm of eyewear. Each design becomes a canvas for his distinctive vision, inviting you on a remarkable journey. Prepare to be captivated as Yiull merges his extraordinary talent with the world of eyewear, leaving an indelible impression on all who dare to embrace his art.
The art behind the eyewear
The Yiull sunwear collection offers organic CR39 sun-lenses with 100% UVA & UVB protection, with 85 – 100% blue-light absorption with the added feature of back surface blue/purple anti-reflective coating, enhancing the performance of these high quality sun-lenses. Available in a wide variety of colours and intensity to suit your mood and needs.
