Touchable, accessible art show returns to Austin

AUSTIN (KXAN) — A touchable, accessible art experience is returning to Austin this month.

The “Touch the Art” experience will open Saturday with hands-on art from more than 40 artists, including young artists at the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

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Students collaborated on large interactive artwork and local artists are also showcasing about 50 touchable pieces as well.

Almost Real Things founder Natalie Earhart began the show to give TSBVI students a gallery experience, removing no-touch barriers at most fine art galleries. This is the second year for the interactive show and partnership with the Austin school.

  • The “Touch the Art” experience will open in April with hands-on art from more than 40 artists, including young artists at the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. (Courtesy Videographer Danny Daichi)
    The “Touch the Art” experience will open in April with hands-on art from more than 40 artists, including young artists at the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. (Courtesy Videographer Danny Daichi)
  • Students create art at Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (Courtesy Videographer Danny Daichi)
    Students create art at Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (Courtesy Videographer Danny Daichi)
  • Students create art at Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (Courtesy Videographer Danny Daichi)
    Students create art at Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (Courtesy Videographer Danny Daichi)
  • Students create art at Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (Courtesy Videographer Danny Daichi)
    Students create art at Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (Courtesy Videographer Danny Daichi)

Earhart said last year’s show was positive and fun, which led to this year’s program. She said the show welcomed people and children with visual impairments who had never gone to an art show before.

The upcoming exhibit will also be open longer than last year—four weeks in total—to allow more people to see the art, Earhart said.

An opening party will be held April 27 from 6 to 10 p.m. with music, activities and themed drinks. The exhibit will be open to the public through May 19.

The gallery is located at 820 Shelby Lane, #103, Austin. More information about tickets and hours is online. Tickets can be bought online in advance.

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