Emphasizing Observation in a Gallery Program for Blind and Low-Vision Visitors: Art Beyond Sight at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Abstract

<p>The article recreates a gallery conversation with blind and low-vision visitors focused on The <em>Judgment of Solomon</em>, (c. 1640) by Matthias Stomer. Rather than passively receiving the interpretations of the facilitator, participants work together to build an understanding of the painting as a whole from the details described. The article goes on to give a history of the program's development including a nuanced evaluation of the merits of handling objects as an aid to comprehension.</p><p>Key words: Museum access for the blind and visually impaired, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, art education for the blind, verbal descriptions of visual art.&nbsp; Audio description of visual art, guided description.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>