Eye to Ear is the first app that makes visual arts accessible to blind and visually impaired people. The method is based on the combination of verbal descriptions and sound interpretations, that can be controlled with different gestures.
Eye to Ear creates a more comprehensive art experience. The app gives blind people the opportunity to experience paintings, drawings and photographs without the help of others.
The design of the interface has been optimized for visually impaired people. The app offers three display sizes. Texts can be enlarged and inverted as desired. We designed the interface using so-called "simulation glasses" in order to ensure readability.
Blind people can use the app with the integrated screenreader "VoiceOver". All menu items are read out loud.
The method is based on a 14-month research and testing phase. The following give an overview of the different stages of the project.
above: Interview with one of our (blind) experts, Eva Papst (spring 2016); Working together with the sound designer Daniel Soto Delgado (autumn 2016); Technical development of NOUS Wissensmangagement GmbH (autumn 2016); Final Test (december 2016). Opening of the "Georgia O'Keeffe" exhibition at the art gallery Bank Austria Kunstforum (december 2016); Press event at Bank Austria Kunstforum (february 2017) below: Impressions of the final test in december 2016
