Artist with Motor Neurone Disease launches FraEye a Clothing Collection designed entirely with his eyes using ‘Eyegaze’ technology

A new clothing collection, FraEye, has been launched in Ireland but with one unique difference – it has been designed entirely through eye tracking technology called ‘Eyegaze’.

53-year-old artist and former architect Fraser Holden from Rathfarnham in Dublin and originally from Australia, was diagnosed with MND in May 2022, with a two to five year lifespan. Having worked for 30 years as an architect providing for wife Orlagh and young daughter Oonagh, Fraser suddenly found himself unable to work due to the rapid progression of the disease.

With a keen creative streak and with the aid of eye-tracking technology, Fraser decided to produce artwork and products with his eyes and sell these items to help his family, while also donating 50% of profits to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA) to help others with MND access essential services.

The new FraEye collection includes unique statement pieces such as fashionable trainers, totes, joggers, track tops, hats and accessories for men, women and children as well as home furnishings including throws and artwork, making them ideal Christmas gifts.

Speaking of the launch, Fraser’s wife Orlagh commented, “Sadly, Fraser is 100% locked in his body now, but he was determined to come up with a way he could provide for us, his family, but also help families like us living with MND. Fraser has always been so creative, and he felt compelled to use his talents in whatever way he could and so FraEye began.”

Fraser had already been using Eyegaze and Adobe to create different forms of graphic art and had succeeded in selling his art across all seven continents, with that money going directly to MND research at Trinity College Dublin. With this gaining momentum, he was then inspired to transfer his graphic art skills to something with everyday function; and given his passion for fashion, the idea soon became a reality.

“With the use of Shopify, Fraser set up an online store where people can secure an item of clothing with Fraser art,” explains Orlagh, “And with each purchase, 50% of the proceeds go to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association. Fraser built and designed the website himself; all manufacturing is outsourced but the designs are created by Fraser. We have had excellent feedback so far on preliminary purchases received. Fraser has created every piece with his mind, eyes and the latest technology. It’s astounding, with orders already coming from all over Ireland and beyond.”

Lillian McGovern, CEO of the IMNDA added, “We are so inspired by Fraser’s determination and creativity in the face of adversity- what an incredible concept that allows people to indulge in some shopping but know you are helping a family living with an MND diagnosis. The items themselves are amazing and stylish and show Fraser’s artistic flair.

“We are so thankful to Fraser and Orlagh for having chosen us – these funds will help us to continue to maintain and improve our supports and services we provide for people living with MND in Ireland and their families as they try and adjust to living with this challenging disease.”

The FraEye collection will soon include an iconic Christmas jumper with a very cute version for family pets – the perfect attire for the festive season while also supporting Fraser, his family and others living with MND in Ireland.

For the full collection, check out https://fraeye.org/.

For information on MND and available supports, visit www.imnda.ie.

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