Vision With Attitude

The visual language of Bauhaus speaks to me. I naturally feel these proportions and lines. I am Protestant, and even in Protestant churches decoration is very reduced in order to focus on the essential — your mindset.

In another context, Bauhaus also works through minimalism of form to achieve clarity and precision. This philosophy applies to eyewear as well.

It is an interaction between the proportions of the frame and those of the face. Of course, technical needs such as comfort on the nose must also be respected.

Acetate offers endless color possibilities, while buffalo horn brings the unique beauty of nature.

It is impossible to have the same tone twice. This makes it a very exciting experience of uniqueness.

DNA makes our uniqueness.

Most of the time, I start from a form I want to create, independent of whether it is feminine or masculine. Many geometric forms are genderless and gain their “DNA expression” through the person wearing them.

Some frames may appear more masculine or feminine in my view, but I have also experienced that they are appreciated by the opposite gender.

That is why I prefer not to define frames as masculine or feminine and instead leave interpretation open.

Here are some examples.

Frame “DNA 5 PARISIAN” is my signature shape — I wear it myself. A geometric diamond form focused on framing the eye. The temples flow organically from the front. It is genderless, pure, simple, and strong without being overwhelming.

Frame “DNA 9” was initially designed as masculine, but I changed my view. I did not expect it to suit women, yet it worked beautifully on many female faces.

I also see “DNA 6” and “DNA 7” as more feminine — both are graphic but with softer lines. “DNA 7” in particular suits female faces and was nominated for the SILMO D’OR 2024.

A strong architectural frame can remain wearable in everyday life, but not every frame fits every face — and that is fine.

It is like fashion: not every outfit suits every person.

For example, “DNA 7” is not easy for everyone, but when it works, it looks strong and exquisite.

I believe “DNA 5 PARISIAN” has the highest level of wearability and adaptability. I represent a niche; my designs are never meant to be mainstream or for everyone. I focus on uniqueness.

There are technical basics that must be respected in collaboration with manufacturers.

Aesthetic harmony must always go together with comfort, otherwise the product cannot last over time.

Comfort at the nose and temple areas is essential. The dimensions of a frame can sometimes limit comfort for certain people, and in that case, the frame is simply not for them — and that is fine.

I am a fan of different approaches, both in materials and technology.

For now, I work with acetate and buffalo horn, but every material inspires me through its specific beauty.

3D printing is an exciting challenge, and nylon has something unique to explore.

I enjoy moving between traditional craftsmanship and industrial technology.

Even handcrafted frames in pure gold appeal to me in the same way.

I want to express my creative identity through these differences and demonstrate that “DNA makes our uniqueness” can include them all.

Definitely 3D printing and nylon, while always continuing my work with traditional craftsmanship such as acetate, buffalo horn, or gold.

What is often missing is a desire for individuality.

Most people wear frames without personality, and in the end they all look the same.

Oversized frames can look great, but often they overwhelm the face and take all the attention.

I would expect eyewear to have a design language, not just be a copy of major brands.

A frame tells you a lot about a person.

You can see whether someone is focused on personality or simply following fashion trends.

Some people want visible logos and attention; others prefer discreet quality and subtle beauty.

Eyewear becomes a language recognizable by those who share the same values: quality, sobriety, or visibility.

There are eccentric frames that reflect personality, and others that aim for harmony and discretion.

The choice sometimes even reminds me of plastic surgery and its different motivations.

The foundation is always personality. From there, you determine what fits best.

The face, physical structure, and features combine with inner personality, which is equally important.

My graphic approach leaves space for the face and expression, without overwhelming it.

A frame can also depend on mood, season, or outfit. It is part of how you present yourself to others.

That is why I named my line “DNA” — it is about authenticity. DNA makes our uniqueness.

The idea behind TILMANN GRAWE Paris Eyewear is rooted in timelessness, similar to my approach in fashion.

I aim to create contemporary design that endures over time, not something that follows trends.

Through the “DNA” line, I develop new frames, forms, materials, and collaborations.

Each new reference does not replace the previous ones — they remain relevant.

I am drawn to contrasts: nylon and 3D printing on one side, gold and traditional craftsmanship on the other.

My goal is to show how a strong signature can exist across all these expressions.