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Photos of the new Aya Eyewear collaboration with South Dakota artist Jim Yellowhawk

February 1, 2025

From Aya Eyewear’s Press Release:

We are thrilled to introduce our newest artist collaboration!

Our journey with Jim Yellowhawk began in the most serendipitous way—through our friends at Rez13. They were showcasing a stunning Jim Yellowhawk blanket design on Italian PhotoVogue’s website. Long story short, we have since been collaborating with Jim to create a collection of which we are incredibly proud.

This new line pairs Jim’s extraordinary artwork with handmade acetates inspired by buffalo horn materials, to create eyewear that is beautiful and deeply meaningful.

In the coming days, we’ll unveil the stories behind the designs and showcase how this collaboration brings Jim’s vision to life. But first, here’s a bit more about the man behind the art:

About Jim Yellowhawk
Jim Yellowhawk is an internationally celebrated artist whose work bridges traditional Lakota art forms with contemporary innovation. A master of ledger art, collage, and dynamic mediums like neon light, Jim’s creations are a vivid celebration of culture, resilience, and storytelling.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Jim is a vibrant and multifaceted individual. A fancy dancer, he carries the energy and rhythm of this dynamic tradition into his creative work. When not dancing, you might find him riding his Indian motorcycle across the Midwest Plains, finding inspiration in the landscapes and history that shape his art.

His work is rich with symbolism, featuring motifs like the horse, eagle and buffalo, which reflect the circle of life and unity in Lakota culture. It’s this unique perspective and heritage that make his collaboration with AYA Eyewear truly one of a kind.

Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the collection, sharing the incredible stories and designs that celebrate Jim’s artistry and vision.

Check out the REZ13 profile on Jim Yellowhawk.

All photos shot in the South Okanagan, in British Columbia.

Models:
Memegwaans is with Supernaturals Modelling in Vancouver
iniipoka Sterling Peterson is with REZ13 in the Okanagan