Get in Touch: Tactile Art at Eastbourne Blind Society

Press Release
GET IN TOUCH: TACTILE ART AT EASTBOURNE BLIND SOCIETY

Eastbourne Blind Society are holding their first art exhibition as part of Eastbourne Festival from Saturday 15 March to Monday 17 March at their centre in 124 – 142 Longstone Road.

This exciting new event will showcase an array of art and craft work by members of the society alongside tactile art especially created for the occasion by guest artists Judith Alder, Sarah-Faye Brett, Jean Hoad, Maureen Pelling, Grace Powell and Irene Runayker.

“We are dedicated to promoting inclusive art,” Deirdre Dean, administrator of Eastbourne Blind Society, explains, “art that is accessible to visually impaired people and exploring art through the sense of touch. It is very exciting for us to be taking part in the Eastbourne Festival this year.”

“Through the enthusiasm and commitment of Solveigh Goett, Betty Burge and a dedicated team of volunteer helpers, we encourage blind and visually impaired people to experiment with various forms of art and craft. Despite loss of vision they are creating beautiful work. The art and craft afternoons are an opportunity to be creative and social and are immensely beneficial to many who have lost their confidence or become isolated through their sight loss.”

The three-day exhibition will end with a talk by artist and researcher Solveigh Goett, University of East London, who has led the art and craft workshop since November 2006 and has a special interest in the role of the senses in making and experiencing art.

The exhibition will be open on Saturday 15 March 2008 2 – 6 pm, Sunday 16 March 2008 11am – 4pm, Monday 17 March 10am – 4pm. The talk ‘Not Just For The Eyes: Art and the Senses’ takes place on Monday 17 March at 2.30pm. Admission is free, but spaces are limited, so booking is essential – please email eastbourneblind@btconnect.com or phone 01323 729 511.

There will also be stalls with information on the participating artists, the activities and services provided by Eastbourne Blind Society and other subjects to do with art and visual impairment as well as work for sale.

Eastbourne Blind Society is a local, independent voluntary organisation committed to supporting blind and visually impaired people in Eastbourne through welfare visiting, social activities, advice and encouragement.

For further information, images and details please visit the events section at www.eastbourneblind.org.uk.