Video by the smARTlab

LOW TO NO VISION

Partnering with Metrolina Association for the Blind and other local and regional organizations, the museum offers tactile tours and art classes to present a more meaningful museum experience for the low-to-no vision community.

Tours vary depending on the current exhibition. Bronze, granite, marble and mixed media sculptures, mid-century furniture, reproductions of paintings and prints, ceramics, fibers and more can be explored by touch. Art classes offer participants a unique experience to work alongside professional artists, to create works inspired by the Bechtler collection or current exhibition and to create tactile work they can enjoy. Tours and art classes are modest in size, allowing for one on one interaction and specialization to each participants' needs.

Email education@bechtler.org to sign up for tactile tours and art classes.

TESTIMONIALS

This was an amazing experience. I’ve never been to a museum in my life. If this is what museums are about, I want to see more. - Participant

The enhanced interactive strategies that the Bechtler has developed to offer more inclusive experiences for the blind features expanded docent narratives of artwork, touch tours of designated art by staff trained in human guide techniques, and accessible art classes.  Metrolina Association for the Blind staff and clients have the highest praise for the commitment the museum is demonstrating by offering these new approaches. - Community Partner: Laura Park-Leach, Metrolina Association for the Blind (MAB), Senior Vice President

He was ecstatic to be a part of the museum programs. He returned for tour after tour after art class and on. Each time he would say, “I am just so happy to still be here with you wonderful folks.” He was in awe of each artwork he touched on the tours and created artworks for his family in the classes – one reading “I’ll love you till I die.” He would sing – there was never a moment of self-pity or sadness, only joy. - Staff

TACTILE TOURS

To schedule a tour please email education@bechtler.org

ART CLASSES

To schedule an art-making workshop please email education@bechtler.org