Specsavers has released two limited edition frames, designed in collaboration with Aboriginal artist and Gumatj leader Mr Peter Datjing Burarrwanga, to benefit the Fred Hollows Foundation’s work in Australia.
The project aims to raise $125,000 for the Fred Hollows Foundation, which would potentially allow for the restoration of 5,000 people’s sight. Specsavers will donate $25 from the sale of each frame, which are available both in stores and online.
The artwork featured on the frames has a special significance to the project; it is one of the first stories painted by Datjing after having receiving sight-restoring cataract surgery provided by the Fred Hollows Foundation. The original art the frames are based of is titled Ganiny and Fog, and depicts Datjing’s East Arnh Land home, Birany Birany.
“It’s essential that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have access to good quality eye services,” Ms Gabi Hollows, Fred Hollows Foundation’s founding director, said.
“Four out of five people who are blind don’t need to be. However, as more than a third of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Island adults have never had an eye health check, many conditions go undiagnosed and Australia’s First People are more likely than other Australians to have poor eye health.
“That’s why funding is vital. Specsavers initiatives like this help us provide eye health care to underserviced and rote communities in Australia.”
Dr Ben Ashby, Specsavers director of optometry, said being able to see the direct impact of Specsavers’ funding is highly rewarding.
“Datjing’s work and livelihood were threatened when he started to lose his sight. Regaining his sight thanks to the Fred Hollows Foundation has given Datjing the confidence to continue his beautiful work, support his family and community and keep his culture alive for future generations. This would not be possible without projects like this.”
The frames start at $199 for two pairs of single vision glasses.
MAIN IMAGE: Mr Peter Datjing Burarrwanga and one of the Specsavers limited edition frames.
