Eyestylist

Sharing the couture passion

1st September 2014 Artsee Miami is eyewear paradise. One of the specialists in unique frames in this part of the world, expect to find the spectacular, the unusual and an exciting taste for creative accessories by innovators and iconic designers – oh, and beautiful art too. Eyestylist spoke to owner Carlos Venegas about his unique concept and views on eyewear trends.

“The Miami store is many ways the representation of 10 years of operation in NYC and the evolution of our concept,” explains Venegas. “There are two art walls on each side of the door, we use them for the different art shows we curate though out the year…art is a main part of what we are; we sell art and the glasses to see it.” Asked about the choice of eyewear collections, Venegas explains his dedication to independent labels, including theo and Claire Goldsmith, and a detailed knowledge of eyewear materials and vintage frames. “We carry few collections at the store, all of them handmade; we curate our eyewear the same way as we do with our art shows. This place is almost a museum; we have great relationships with the different designers, we all share the couture passion. You can always find something different, whether its the material – wood, horn, recycled vinyl records – or the colours or a vintage design; every frame has a special touch, making them unique.”

Alongside emerging labels, Carlos has a close relationship with the Christian Roth label, whose founders, Christian and Eric, are based in Miami for a part of the year. “Often times we partner with companies to intervene in our store space, to do something different that represents their inspirations and concepts behind their eyewear – it can be anything from music to video screenings. The perfect example is the Christian Roth Collection; as one of the icons in eyewear design, we are very proud to represent their new magnificent line, which was launched at our store. Christian and Eric are always interested in hearing feedback from our customers to improve and inspire new creations, which is amazing! We can give people the chance to meet them personally at our frequent events. As a matter of fact, within the next couple of weeks, they will be launching their newest design exclusively at our store, with a little surprise…!”

And alongside icons are the new emerging talents from other parts of the world. “It is very interesting to see a lot of new designers emerging; there is definitely a big boom for wood and natural materials. Unfortunately, most of them do not have the quality we search for. Often times, creators are looking for the `cool´ factor over functionality, many of those new frames won´t handle a new set of lenses. Glasses should be able to handle multiple prescriptions and fit different needs. There are of course great new brands, such as Rolf Spectacles, with their stunning craftsmanship and innovation using wood, horn and stone. I have also noticed a lot of people are into vintage eyewear; this is a great opportunity for us to revisit earlier designs and learn a little history.”

Carlos says that the Artsee experience is all about recommending specific frames for individuals, and bringing something exceptional out of a hidden cabinet when the time is right, and the customer presents themselves. “From the moment a client comes in we are already thinking what would be the best options to fit their style. We ask a few questions to know what they use their glasses for and what type of prescription they have so we can fit their needs. But our followers come expecting to find something new and exciting! Our dearest customers come in, take a seat and say, “Give me whatever you think is going to look good on me!” …they trust us. We are always up for funky stuff and cool colours!”

Visit Artsee Miami at 1658 Lenox Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida – www.artseemiami.com  CN