Museum whisperers bring art to life for visually impaired
Image whisperers are changing the game for visually impaired art lovers.
Can you imagine walking through a museum, surrounded by masterpieces, but unable to see them. That's where image whisperers come in.
These enthusiastic volunteers bring art to life for blind and partially-sighted visitors.
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum has partnered with Souffleurs De Sens to offer this innovative service.
Image whisperers accompany visitors, describing elements that are invisible to them, and providing the information they need to access the works on display.
Blind or partially-sighted visitors book a ticket and request an image whisperer at least 15 days in advance. The venue reserves a spot, and a volunteer is assigned.
According to eNCA, Alice Baronnet, a spokesperson for the Red Cross Museum, was among almost 30 art specialists, guides and artists who underwent training last year to become image whisperers.
“It's very important for us to be as inclusive as possible," she told AFP.
While this service isn't available in South Africa just yet, we hope our museums will take note.
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Image courtesy of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum
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