“Feel the City” pilot-concept of a tactile exhibition - Romania

“Feel the City” was the pilot-concept of a tactile, accessible exhibition developed under the project “Cultural Timișoara - a European city, a city for all” implemented in 2023 in Timișoara, European Capital of Culture 2023.

This pilot-concept exhibition aimed to create a welcoming and inclusive space where individuals with visual impairments could engage with the city's cultural heritage on a deeper level. By combining tactile elements, audio descriptions, and simplified information, the exhibition offers a truly immersive and enriching experience for all visitors.

The centrepiece of the exhibition was a series of 3D tactile models measuring approximately 40x40x40 cm. These models represented 22 significant cultural venues, allowing visitors to physically interact with and understand the architectural features and spatial relationships of these landmarks.

To enhance the tactile experience, the exhibition also featured tactile brochures and maps that provide detailed information and guidance. Additionally, tactile contemporary artwork representing 5 city instances offered a contemporary perspective on the urban environment.

For visitors who require additional support, large-print information in simplified language was available to ensure accessibility. Moreover, audio information delivered through the ArtEcho app provided in-depth descriptions and commentary in 8 languages. This innovative approach utilizes NFC and QR technologies to seamlessly deliver audio content to visitors' devices.

The pilot project involved as well design of tactile kits including 3D tactile models measuring approximately 14x14x14 cm equipped with NFC technology that connects them to the ArtEcho app and tactile brochures and maps equipped with raised QR codes that link to audio information in Romanian. 

The kits were provided to the Special School in Timișoara to serve as didactic materials and to cultural operators and tour guides to be used during the local tours, so visually impaired could be included. 

By combining tactile elements, audio descriptions, and digital technology, this pilot project aims to:

• Promote inclusivity by making cultural experiences accessible to individuals with visual impairments especially;
• Enhance learning through hands-on exploration and multi-sensory engagement for the general public and persons with disabilities;
• Stimulate tourism by creating a more inclusive and appealing destination.

About the project “Cultural Timișoara - a European city, a city for all" and video (in Romanian with subtitle in various languages).

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