Problem
Art is an important but often challenging subject for blind and visually impaired children as well as adults. However, the absence or restriction of sight should not limit individuals in their study and appreciation of the arts. My objectives are to fully explore the many hindrances visually handicapped individuals encounter as they try to understand and enjoy art. It is important to understand that art is not only a visual presence, but also has a tactile presence of texture, sound and smell. They should be provided with a variety of experiences to make art interesting and meaningful.
Cause(s)
There are a number of different causes of visual impairments resulting in a wide variety of visual problems. Children can be born blind or become blind as a result of an accident, illness, or eye condition. Some individuals are totally blind while other may see light, shadows, and colors and yet have no useful vision. Depending on their conditions, others may see images that appear blurry, distorted, or incomplete while others are able to read large print but have difficulty traveling without assistance. Many visually impaired children are mainstreamed into regular education classrooms and work along with their sighted peers with the assistance of adapted materials, such as Braille translations of text. Students should not be excluded from a class or activity due to their visual impairment. However, some subjects, such as art, are more difficult than others to adapt or modify.
Solution
To derive maximum benefit from the art, visually impaired students should be presented with a multi-sensory approach to learning about art. It will provide information on how to ensure that the visional impaired, particularly the children, have the same or similar opportunities as their sighted peers. Developed for children from preschool up to second grade, our Braille Book will assist visually impaired and blind students in their efforts to explore, analyze, and enjoy all types of art. In addition, It will assist teachers in modifying lessons and providing experiences that will allow students with limited or no vision to use their remaining senses to gain information about art. It may also be of benefit to art museums in aiding handicapped students in their effort to experience art through alternate means.