East Cheshire Eye Society is very proud to have received the 2019 Visionary Award (sponsored by Blind Veterans UK) for its Tactile Visually Impaired Art Group.
Visually Impaired art activities focused on walks with an art theme, involving local artists as tutors. Materials within nature were used as tools to create multi-sensory art works, with visually impaired people using their senses of touch, smell and hearing to create art work reflecting the landscape, wildlife and heritage of the local countryside.
Sessions took place throughout the year giving the opportunity for participants to experience the impact of the different seasons along with changes to smells and sounds around them – supported by local artists and volunteer sighted guides.
Participants told of increased confidence, a sense of achievement and the sheer joy of being able to simply hear the sounds of the countryside. For some it was a completely new experience, but for others it was a way to rediscover skills, with some having not done these things since losing their sight, and that they never thought they would be able to do so again.
“A holiday all in one day” is how one person described it.
East Cheshire Eye Society supports people affected by sight loss. If you or somebody you know could benefit from their services contact them on 01625 422602 or email info@eastcheshireeyesociety.org.uk
New Volunteers and financial support are always welcome.