A new gallery, Iris Galerie, has recently opened in Freeport, providing an innovative way for individuals to explore the intricate details of their own eyes. Located at 86 Main St., this gallery is the first of its kind in New England and was inaugurated in August.
During a visit, a young woman positioned her eye against a specialized camera lens while Igor Gorn, the store manager, guided her through the process. “That is the first step to discovering the beauty of your eye,” he explained as he captured a magnified image of her iris. The resulting photograph revealed the unique patterns of her iris, akin to a fingerprint, which she could take home.
Visitors to the Iris Galerie are invited to sit and have their irises photographed at 100 times magnification. “We focus on personalized art, and it is a unique concept,” Gorn noted, emphasizing the gallery”s commitment to showcasing individuality.
Customers can receive a complimentary iris photograph, which can then be transformed into various art pieces, including wall art, light boxes, and jewelry. The gallery offers options for added effects like halos or explosions in the images. Wall art is particularly popular, with the ability to feature up to six irises in a single piece. Visitors can also purchase prints in a range of sizes.
Before entering, prospective customers can preview their eye”s details through a mirror box set outside the gallery, displaying their eyes at ten times magnification. This feature allows individuals to compare the differences between their left and right irises. “It becomes meaningful to our guests when they discover the beauty of their iris,” Gorn remarked, highlighting the personal connection people develop with their images.
The concept of Iris Galerie originated in Paris in 2021, inspired by the work of French photographer Francis Giacobetti, who famously photographed the irises of renowned figures such as Francis Bacon and Nelson Mandela. Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, founder Emeric Wehbeh expanded the project to encompass everyone, recognizing that while masks obscured much of the face, the eyes became a focal point of expression.
Now, Iris Galerie has established hundreds of locations across North America and Europe, with a few in Asia. Prices for iris photography start at $59, while light boxes begin at $219. Jewelry crafted from iris images or laser engravings onto gold or silver pendants is available, starting at $89. The gallery is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, Wednesday through Sunday.
