We talk about inclusion, engagement and diversity as second nature. But have we ever really understood what is like for people who are blind or have low vision to engage in art exhibitions.
To be honest, I had not. So to be invited to have training by experts in this field was humbling to say the least. This opportunity was provided by Design Fringe and Linden New Art.
It was led by Nilgun Guven, from Vitae Veritas, and Alan Bartlett a sight impaired artist, who introduced a novice group of artists and curators to how we can ‘make arts and culture more inclusive of, equitable and accessible to people who are blind, or have low vision’.
Nilgun is clearly a very experienced tactile tour guide and has been leading tactile tours at Linden for several years now. Her company, Vitae Veritas is a major provider of high quality audio description and tactile tour services for the performing and visual arts industry.
Alan generously provided his experience of what inclusion practically means and what works from how to approach a guided gallery tour to how to navigate a busy outdoor festival.
Linden New Art are providing the opportunity for exhibiting artists to be involved with Tactile Tours that aim to enable quality creative, sensory, social and interactive engagement experiences. The aim is to enable everyone with vision impairment to have the time and space to appreciate and critically engage with the artworks.
It got me reflecting about how my art, primarily 3D sculptures, could produce more touch friendly experiences and provide those with sight impaired or multisensory or learning disabilities, the freedom to explore without boundaries.
Consider also the number of ‘high end galleries’ where some steps have been taken. We are familiar with audio described displays, audio guides or braille signage and QR codes that can assist to make works more accessible.
I’ve also observed some museums are utilising tactile 3D printing of replicas and artefacts that enable anyone to get up close to pieces.
But on the whole the enduring message communicated by some gallery’s is ‘Don’t Touch’.
We need more options that encourage all of us to use our senses, making the exhibits more accessible for all.
I understand the need to protect the art but I wonder if the artist’s commissioned or exhibiting have been asked to consider how they might approach a wider appreciation of making accessibility intrinsic to their works? What about creating specifically tailored events and exhibitions, that we can all attend, that make blind and partially sighted visitors feel more included and respected.
Let’s integrate the blind perspective with the aim to reach a wider and more diverse audience and let’s start by asking blind audiences how they’d like to be included.
Full credit must go to Linden New Art for their inclusive engagement practices. Check out the Design Fringe at Linden New Art , St Kilda, on until 24 November.
For more on training and advice go to https://vitaeveritas.com.au
