Special+Education

//Visual Arts-Beyond Sight //
Observations at the W. Ross MacDonald School for the Blind – Food for Thought

Students at the W. Ross MacDonald School for the Blind in Brantford Ontario, enjoy being a part of an art community as much as a student with sight. Three dimensional and tactile elements of art become the focus along with art history. Upon entering the classroom red earth clay stains many of the tables and shelves, where sculptures from students past and present adorn the shelves. Paper Mache, wood, sandpaper, wires, glass are just some of the many tactile materials that are found in the art room. Depending on the severity of the visual impairment many students still incorporate colour into their projects based on the knowledge they have come to understand about it through lessons. What ever the materials and elements they are working with students become alive, the level of excitement in the room is contagious it inspires anyone who walks into that classroom to indulge in art through their own hands.

The inspiration from these students can be incorporated into the Visual Arts classroom by reevaluating the materials and approaches we use as educators in our own pedagogy. Teaching our students to not only use their eyes but their hands, souls, and heart when creating art holds a possibility of new inspiration. Students can be taught to not only see their art but feel it through textures. The focus on hands on approach may also reach to a new audience of art students who learn best with that intelligence.