Touch Poetry
This series was inspired by the access to art in the exhibited space for those with sight and without sight. It also raises awareness about braille - a literally tool, presented as an art form to a wider audience. The embroidery on fabric gives each word a tactile feel which is very different to when we write on paper or say a word out loud. The works through poetry explore how words have the power to create a feeling and how that is affected when translated into another language. Different coloured fabric is used as often there is a misconception that people with visual impairments cannot identify colours.
Some of the quotes were provided by visually impaired people as a collaboration in this project. That were later translated and embroidered by hand.
As most of the artworks are in Braille, a translation booklet - inspired by aids provided to people with visual impairments in museums and other art spaces, is provided for people who do not understand braille.
Sample of the guide provided to visitors at the display
Audience was encouraged to touch the pieces
English Language was mainly used with English Braille
Urdu was also used in some pieces as it is my native language and to create an experience of how words feel are in different languages.
The pieces are very colourful which was in response to sighted people asking me why I use colour as there is a misconception that people with visual impairments cannot see anything.
The pieces from this project were displayed in 2 group shows: Point 9 at International Student House and Summer Show 2018 at Camberwell College of Arts which was attended by both sighted and visually impaired audience.
