3d Photo Works: Touch the Art by Design

John Olson from 3D Photo Works gives us an overview of the tactile replicas of some of the finest art in the world. 3E Photo Works goal is to provide the blind with access to art and photography at every museum, every science center and every cultural institution, first in this country and then beyond.

Since the invention of Braille nearly 200 years ago, advocates have worked continuously to improve access to the printed word for the blind. Today, technology makes access nearly immediate.

However, a new challenge exists. The next frontier is to provide the blind with access to photographs and art, not words that describe them, but access to the actual images.

3DPhotoWorks has devoted nearly 7 years to developing a solution. Our process converts any painting, drawing, collage or photograph to a 3 Dimensional Tactile Fine Art Print. Our prints have length, width, depth and texture. Using their fingertips, the blind experience our prints through tactile feedback. This feedback creates a mental picture that allows the blind to “see” (their words) the art, often for the first time.

Sensors are embedded throughout the print that when activated by touch, provide custom audio that grows the narrative.

You can find 3D Photo Works on the Web and by phone at 518-392-8161

Thank you for listening.

You can follow us on Twitter @BlindAbilities

On the web at www.BlindAbilities.com

Send us an email

Get the Free Blind Abilities App on the App Store.