In brief
Christina Leitzel, known as “Christina Oculara,” is revolutionizing prosthetic eyes with her imaginative designs that celebrate individuality. Her creations, ranging from sunflower-shaped pupils to shimmering gold effects, challenge the conventional norms of prosthetic fittings and give new life to those who need them.
In the realm of prosthetic eyes, the journey of creation often mirrors that of an art forger, as Christina Leitzel learned during her apprenticeship. Her delicate craft involves replicating one of nature's most nuanced designs. However, Leitzel's mission transcends mere imitation—she seeks to illustrate that there are myriad ways to reclaim an eye after loss.On a rainy day in Portland, Oregon, she welcomed a man in his 30s, recently bereft of his eye due to an unfortunate BB gun incident. As he stepped out of her studio wearing a vibrant forest green beanie, his new eye sparkled with a unique gold vortex at its core, a testament to Leitzel's artistry. Known on TikTok and Instagram as “Christina Oculara,” her portfolio of “fun eyes” includes pupils designed as sunflowers and vibrant motifs inspired by personal stories of loss and love.Leitzel’s clients often arrive with heartfelt requests, seeking to encapsulate the essence of loved ones. One poignant instance involved a man who brought his late wife’s ashes, asking for an eye that allowed her to “see everything he does.” Another memorable request came from a woman, adorned with piercings, who whimsically desired a pierced iris. The latter struck a chord on social media, garnering attention so significant that medical professionals felt compelled to caution against the idea of actual piercing of eyes.Through her creativity and compassion, Leitzel is reshaping narratives surrounding eye loss and restoration, advocating for a future where prosthetics celebrate individuality rather than merely blend into the expected normalcy.
