Being Creative with Visual Impairment

Art is more than a visual experience. It is an opportunity to express yourself by using many of your senses. You may be surprised to learn that some of the world’s greatest artists were visually impaired. Rembrandt had Cataracts, Georgia O’Keefe had Macular Degeneration, and Monet had macular abnormalities as well. By being organized and using special tools and creative techniques, a visually impaired person can remain involved in the world of art. Here are a few hints:

• Organize your supplies using separate containers.
• Label your colors and paint supplies with large, dark print labels.
• Use task lighting such as a gooseneck lamp with natural light and paint or work with the sun behind you – not in your face. Or place an umbrella over your easel or work area to shield light, especially if you are outside.
• For painting, you can cut out shapes from Manila file folders to place on a canvas. Paint within the stencil for the object and then place the cut out piece over it to paint the background.
• Consider palette knives instead of brushes.
• Consider water-based paints to avoid having to use turpentine.
• For pottery, use clay in small amounts so it is easier to mold and control.
• Colored clay may provide better contrast, making it easier to see.
• Use the clay to create textures and shapes that you can touch. Use tactile items such as seeds, beads, seashells, leaves, or other natural items.
• Use your imagination and memory to recreate things from your past visual experiences.
• Use self-hardening or low-temperature clay that can be baked in a traditional domestic oven to avoid the high temperature of a kiln.

Creating a Craft Area:

• Create a work surface that offers contrast. Consider painting half of the surface white and half black. Use matte finish so you won’t have glare. Using colored poster board and affixing it to your table is another idea.
• Invest in a good task light that you can direct onto your work. A flexible goose-neck or a swing-arm are good options. Some have built-in magnifiers if needed.
• Enlarge craft instructions or patterns on a copier, have them recorded on cassette, or use a CCTV.
• Organize your supplies in separate boxes, containers with lids, zip-lock bags, or even baby food jars.
• Label containers so that you can find the items you need as you want them. Use large, dark print labels or raised print labels. You can even glue a sample item to the outside of the container.
• Tape measures and rulers can be purchased with tactile or large print markings. There are also talking tape measures.

Resources for the Visually Impaired Artist

Talking Tape Measure

Tactile/Braille/Large Print Ruler

Spread Eye Sewing Needle

Ott Lite or Verilux Task Lights

20/20 Labeling Pen w/ white office labels

“Say When” Liquid Level Measuring Device

This booklet was compiled with information from Visionaware.org, Sight Loss Services, and artist Frances McLaughlin.

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