cleiton reinterprets classic brazilian funk with MONOCLEI, a limited edition monocle

cleiton spotlights the value of brazilian funk

In the gold era of Brazilian funk, Cleiton presents MONOCLEI — a bold reimagining of the classic monocle while challenging its historical association with power and wealth. With this project, the Brazilian art collective seeks to spotlight the intellectual and cultural significance of funk — a rhythm long subjected to social repression for decades. The limited edition series presents 50 gold models and 50 silver models, each of which will be available for presale on 21 November, 2023.

monoclei: rethinking a traditional symbol of class

MONOCLEI breathes new life into the centuries-old eyewear accessory. Traditionally considered a symbol for wealth and status, the monocle was once donned exclusively by aristocrats and military figures espousing elitist and discriminatory views. Cleiton’s reinterpretation seeks to break free from this exclusivity, propelling the monocle into a realm of intellectual rebellion.

Beyond a mere accessory, MONOCLEI becomes a symbol that aesthetically defines individuality with each wear. The collective’s initiative delves into the realms of power, culture, and intellect, associated with the monocle. ‘MONOCLEI was created with the purpose of provoking reflection on the need to extinguish the monopoly of wealth and culture in the world. A piece that serves as the ostentatious symbol of an oppressed intellectuality, creating a meaning that goes far beyond aesthetics,’ notes the team.

project info:

name: MONOCLEI
designer: Cleiton

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.