News

An audio-described and tactile tour of the prestigious Archibald Prize

September 11, 2023

In a step towards more inclusion within the arts, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT (GDN) have worked with the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) to curate and provide feedback on a unique and immersive experience: an audio-described and tactile tour of the prestigious Archibald Prize.

The Archibald Prize, an annual accolade bestowed upon the most exceptional portrait, boasts a distinguished tradition of celebrating individuals who have left an indelible mark on the realms of art, letters, science, or politics. The criteria, established by AGNSW, champion portraits that capture the essence of the sitter while reflecting the artist’s own creative interpretation. Judged by the esteemed trustees of AGNSW, the competition thrives on its open nature, welcoming entries from artists hailing from Australasia. Finalists are then granted the privilege of having their work displayed in an exhibition at the gallery, an honour that further magnifies the allure of the prize.

However, this year’s iteration of the Archibald Prize has broken new ground, introducing an inclusive facet that is destined to redefine how art interacts with its audience. AGNSW has invited clients and team members to partake in a fully funded audio-described tour of the exhibition. Unlike conventional tours, which often rely heavily on visual elements, this experience is curated to engage all the senses, allowing individuals with low vision and blindness to not only appreciate the art but also connect with it.

The audio-described tour brings the portraits to life through eloquent descriptions that meticulously detail artistic element and dived deep into the narratives woven within each piece.

A highlight of this experience was the incorporation of a new tactile medium, which opens new opportunities for engagement. Several portraits have been recreated using acrylic duplicates, rendering the subjects and their surroundings in a tangible form. This addition allows participants to not only hear and envision the art but also to feel it, creating a multi-dimensional encounter. This initiative is a testament to AGNSW and its commitment to inclusivity within the arts.

Beyond the immersive encounter itself, this collaboration actively seeks participant feedback to continually enhance the exhibit. The insights shared by clients and team members will undoubtedly contribute to refining this pioneering approach, paving the way for future artistic experiences that champion accessibility without compromising on the integrity of the art.

We would like to thank The Art Gallery of NSW for providing our Client Services Support Team with the opportunity to provide vital feedback to make The Archibald Prize the best one yet. We would also like to thank the AGNSW describers who enabled the transformation from a visual spectacle; thank you to Jo, Simon, and Jess.

This multi-sensory celebration is a powerful reminder that art has the potential to break barriers, transcend limitations, and unite individuals through shared experiences and highlights the limitless possibilities that emerge when institutions collaborate with a vision of a more inclusive world.

To continue on their inclusivity journey, the Art Gallery of NSW is taking the Archibald on the road to Regional NSW and Victoria to ensure that as many people as possible are able to see this incredible artwork.

For more information, visit the Art Gallery touring exhibition website here or check out the dates below.