Harn offers ways to experience art to people with limited or no sight

March 21, 2013

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Visitors to the Harn Museum of Art can discover art through senses other than sight from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

MindSight, an initiative of the Gator Lions Club, is held annually and offers an opportunity for individuals who have limited or no sight to experience art through touch.

The works are provided by artists in the community, including award-winning artists Linda DiFranco and Sharon Bartz, and UF’s art education department.

Volunteers and artists will describe each work of art as participants explore texture and shape with their hands. The museum also invites those with sight to experience the art in the same way by wearing a blindfold.

In addition, the UF Environmental Horticulture Club will provide plants that will offer interesting textures and aromas for participants to investigate.

Admission is free. To learn more about the event, contact Karina Friman, Gator Lions President, atkfriman@ufl.edu for information.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. The museum is open until 9 p.m. the second Thursday of every month for Museum Nights. The Camellia Court Café is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information call 352-392-9826 or visit www.harn.ufl.edu.