In this tactile workshop specifically for blind and low vision guests, we will explore the role of models in understand the natural world and research in the Chau Chak Wing Museum's exhibition Natural Selections.
We will explore how models have been used to unlock the world around us, and participants in the workshop will use tactile models. The program will include an audio description tour of the animal species in the exhibition Natural Selections and a then to handle a range of tactile tables that will enable visitors who are blind or have low vision to experience the museum’s collection. We invite participants to handle 3D models of collection items.
This program will be led by Dr Lisa Andrew, artist educator with decades of work in creating content for accessible experiences, and Associate Professor Dagmar Reinhardt, researcher and designer of 'Museum for Touch 'accessible toolkits.
This workshop is part of the Disability Inclusion Week celebrations on campus but is open to all visitors who are blind or have low vision.
Dr Lisa Andrew is an artist whose research-based practice and pedagogy centres on the potential of Audio Description for an inclusive audience by weaving close looking, writing and expression with access in mind. A multisensorial approach that does not privilege sight, which asks, what can museums do for Audio Description? And what can Audio Description do for writing about art and museum collections?
Dagmar Reinhardt teaches architectural design at the School of Architecture, Design and Planning, The University of Sydney. Her research explores design at the intersection of architecture, body, space and the senses, by integration of advanced data retrieval and fabrication methods, including photogrammetry and robotics. Dagmar designs touch access strategies for blind and low vision people in research for accessible playgrounds and a museum for touch in collaboration with Nextsense, Monash University, Macquarie University and the Chau Chak Wing Museum.
