Renowned South African artist Yiull Damaso has embarked on an exciting new journey with the launch of his brand, Yiull Eyewear.
- Yiull Damaso is celebrated for his ground-breaking Nelson Mandela portraits and diverse creative ventures.
- Known for his fearless exploration of art, Yiull’s career spans art, design, and cultural commentary, always driven by an unmistakable passion for artistry.
- His latest venture promises to blend art and functionality seamlessly, bringing a fresh perspective to the world of eye-wear.
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Yiull Damaso’s journey into eye-wear began with a pair of iconic sunglasses reminiscent of Peter Fonda’s in ‘Easy Rider’ – a timeless accessory that sparked countless inquiries wherever he went.
Those sunglasses were not just eyewear; they were a statement. They lasted through years of daily use, inspiring me to create something equally enduring.
// South African Artist, Yiull Damaso

Each piece in the Yiull Eyewear collection reflects his distinctive artistic flair, transforming sunglasses into canvases of self-expression. Drawing from his illustrious career, Yiull infuses his eye-wear designs with innovation and cultural resonance, promising wearers a unique visual experience.
Yiull Eyewear stands out not only for its artistic designs but also for its high-quality materials and advanced technology. The sun wear collection features organic CR39 sun-lenses with 100% UVA and UVB protection, 85% – 100% blue-light absorption, and back surface blue/purple anti-reflective coating. This combination enhances the performance of these lenses, providing both style and functionality.
Yiull’s fearless approach to art is evident in his eye-wear designs. His collection invites wearers to embrace their individuality and creativity, offering a range of options from bold statement pieces to understated classics.

Each model in the Yiull Eyewear collection holds a special meaning, often reflecting personal connections and memories from Yiull’s life. This thoughtful approach adds a layer of depth to each piece, making them not just accessories, but stories in themselves:
- THE 68’s: Named after the year Yiull was born, this model celebrates the tumultuous and significant year of 1968, a time of great change and cultural shifts.
- THE AVONDALE: This model pays homage to the area Yiull grew up in and the school he attended in Zimbabwe, evoking memories of his childhood and lifelong friendships.
- THE BENTOLINO: Named using Yiull’s grandfather’s pet name for his father, this model honors his Italian heritage and the enchanting character of his grandfather, Felice Colombo.
- THE DANIELA: A tribute to Yiull’s sister, this model reflects their close bond and mutual support, even incorporating a unique spelling detail that holds personal significance.
- THE KATO’s: Inspired by the Asian butler character from the Pink Panther film series, this model captures the artistic haphazard comedy and the playful spirit of the films.
- THE MANTIS: Named after a beloved childhood toy car, this model symbolizes Yiull’s appreciation for unique and unusual designs, despite the car being stolen during his childhood.
- THE PAGODA: A nod to the classic Mercedes from the 60s, this model reflects Yiull’s love for classic cars and his dream of owning one someday.
- THE SWEENEY: Inspired by a British crime series from the 70s, this model captures the essence of Yiull’s childhood admiration for the characters’ style and demeanor.
- THE VERUTIN: Another homage to Yiull’s Italian heritage, this model is named after his grandfather’s pet name for his mother, celebrating the artistic genes passed down through generations.
Yiull Damaso has always been known for his fearless exploration of art, and his venture into eye-wear is no exception. His work, which has been featured in prestigious publications like The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, and on major news networks like BBC and CNN, continues to push boundaries and challenge norms. With Yiull Eyewear, he brings his distinctive vision to a new canvas, transforming sunglasses into works of art.

From the thoughtful design of each model to the high-performance lenses, Yiull Eyewear promises to leave an indelible impression on all who embrace his art. Yiull’s latest creation will be available through exclusive stockists nationwide.
One visionary design at a time, Yiull Damaso continues to leave his mark in the world of art and fashion.
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