Centennial Optical Collaborates with Ió:ken Designs™ on Indigenous Culturally Inspired Frame Collection

Thursday, January 15 2026 | 15 h 05 min | News

Centennial Optical has announced a new collaboration with Ió:ken Designs to develop and distribute a culturally inspired designer eyewear collection created in partnership with Indigenous artists and community leaders in Akwesasne, Canada.

Ió:ken Designs Inc.™ is a newly established eyewear brand featuring original artwork by Mohawk artist Bruce Boots. The collection draws on cultural symbols and visual storytelling rooted in the history, values, and resilience of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) people and other Indigenous Nations.

The name Ió:ken, pronounced Yo:kenh or Yo:gah, translates to “It’s Clear” in the Kanien’keha (Mohawk) language. The brand was developed through a collaboration between artist Bruce Boots, optometrist Danielle Dubuc, and project manager Gail Mc Donald, with the shared goal of creating eyewear that honours Indigenous identity through authentic design.

Centennial Optical was selected as the frame development, manufacturing, and distribution partner for the collection. According to Centennial Optical President Allen Nightingale, the collaboration represents more than a conventional product launch. He noted that the collection brings together craftsmanship and storytelling, resulting in frames designed to stand out through both aesthetic appeal and cultural significance.

Dr. Dubuc, who has worked in the Akwesasne community for more than three decades, said the project reflects a long-standing desire to see eyewear that meaningfully represents the people she serves. Mc Donald added that Centennial Optical was chosen for its alignment with the project’s values, including respect for community, history, and cultural integrity.

Each frame in the Ió:ken Designs collection features illustrated temple artwork by Bruce Boots, incorporating symbolic elements such as the Hiawatha Belt, Eagle Feather, Clan imagery, Berries and Beads, Seven Generations, and Celestial Sky Domes. These designs are paired with contemporary frame shapes available in a range of colours and sizes.

The first Ió:ken Designs collection is scheduled to launch across Canada in February 2026.

Source: Centennial Optical

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