CASE STUDY
Digital technologies for blind & low-vision visitors Digital technologies can help make artworks more accessible for blind and low-vision visitors. As part of a host of programs offered for differently abled audiences, the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC, uses computer-generated tactile reproductions, which combine raised line, texture, and printed image to convey the composition of a painting. These panels are used in combination with visual descriptions during programs catering to visually impaired visitors. Since 2016, the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh has also used tactile panels and makes them available to visitors in the same galleries where the actual paintings are displayed.
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• ASSOCIATION OF ART MUSEUM CURATORS FOUNDATION
Erin Blakemore, “Visually Impaired People Can Now Explore Andy Warhol’s Work with Their Ears and Fingers,” Smithsonian.com, November 2, 2016, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/ visually-impaired-people-can-now-explore-andywarhols-work-their-ears-180960935/ (accessed March 14, 2019). Leah Morelli, “Blog: Designing an Inclusive Audio Guide Part 2: Tactile Reproductions,” The Andy Warhol Museum, July 14, 2016, https://www.warhol. org/designing-an-inclusive-audio-guide-part-2-tactilereproductions/ (accessed March 14, 2019).