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Audio Describer Karly Allen and deaf art guide Edward Richards lead a tour of the Michael Rakowitz exhibition. Explore artworks through Audio Description (AD) – the verbal translation of the visual for blind and partially sighted people – and through British Sign Language (BSL) – the visual and spatial language developed by deaf people.
This event is co-developed with Dr Ellen Adams, Kings College London
Access All Senses is a project led by Dr Ellen Adams that explores how access provision – AD and touch tours for the blind, and deaf-led tours in BSL – enable users to experience art differently. The project considers how sighted and hearing people may also benefit from these modes of communication. For more information visit.
Audio Description provides access for blind or partially sighted people, with a vivid, verbal translation of visual culture. Most registered blind people can see something – shapes, colours or tunnel-vision. Spoken language can help make sense of this partial information, and provide insightful guidance for all listeners, whether blind or sighted.
Sign languages are more than simply manual versions of the local spoken language. BSL has a clear set of grammatical rules that is entirely different from spoken English, as they are based on visual and spatial criteria. This visual-spatial language is particularly rich to use when engaging with visual culture.
The tours are accessible to blind, sighted, deaf and hearing people.
No prior knowledge of AD or BSL required.
BSL interpreters will provide sign language and English voice over as appropriate.
If you have any questions about the event please email access@whitechapelgallery.org.
