In brief
Christina Leitzel, known as “Christina Oculara,” specializes in creating unique prosthetic eyes that celebrate personal expression. From sunflower pupils to striking diamond eyes, her work not only helps those who have lost an eye but also challenges societal perceptions of beauty and loss.
In the field of prosthetic eye creation, Christina Leitzel has emerged as a pioneer, merging artistry with functionality. Advised during her apprenticeship to replicate the natural intricacies of an eye, she has instead chosen to infuse fun and personalization into her designs. With her charm and creativity, Leitzel, known on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram as “Christina Oculara,” is changing the narrative surrounding eye loss.On a recent rainy afternoon in Portland, Oregon, a man who had lost an eye to an errant BB gun left Leitzel’s studio with a smile, sporting a new prosthetic that matched his forest green beanie, but with a notable twist—his new eye featured an enchanting gold swirl at its center. Leitzel’s work often features whimsical designs; she has produced pupils shaped like sunflowers and diamond slits resembling those of beloved pets.Her clients’ requests are as heartfelt as they are imaginative. One man brought in the ashes of his deceased wife, requesting that the prosthetic eye allow her to “see everything he did.” Another client, adorned in piercings, playfully asked for a pierced iris. While some of her designs have caused health professionals to issue warnings—particularly one popularized on TikTok about actual eyeball piercings—Leitzel remains focused on creating a range of possibilities for those navigating the challenges of vision loss. Her mission is to not only provide visual aids but to celebrate life’s complexities through creativity.
