27-11-23 Session III - Subjectivity and (sensory) access needs

Sensory organs:

Sight → Eye
Sound → Ear
Smell → Nose
Taste → Tongue
Touch → Skin

Basic Information:

A sensory kit is a collection of items that may help calm overstimulating situations. For example, headphones can be used to reduce loud noises. I have listed common sensory items below.

A sensory kit is important because it promotes relaxation for visitors when the sensory inputs interfere with attention and concentration or cause them to become anxious and overwhelmed.

Sensory Kits should be available for visitors free of charge. The Option that visitors check out the sensory kits at the front desk of museums/gallery is common. We also suggest a strategy to keep sensory kits in the exhibit space for a visitor’s self-checkout because some visitors feel they are forced to self-disclose and uncomfortable or stigmatized when checking out the kits at the reception desk.

How To Make A Sensory Kit:

:::

Suggested items:

Such items include something that promotes tactile (touch), auditory (sound), and olfactory (smell) modes of exploration to increase engagement in museums, and fidgets will be customized via 3-D printer to incorporate the museum content.


1. Noise-Canceling Headphones:
. Put on the headphones to reduce background noise and create a quieter environment.
. Adjust the volume to your preference.
. Enjoy the art in a more peaceful setting.

2. Fidget Toys:
. Use the provided fidget toys to keep your hands busy and your mind relaxed.
. Squeeze, twist, or roll the items as you explore the exhibits.

3. Soft Lighting Options:
. Dim the lights in your surroundings with the adjustable lamps.
. Customize the lighting to create a soothing atmosphere as you enjoy the art.

4. Calming Scents:
. Try out the provided essential oils or scented pads.
. Inhale the calming scents to enhance your sensory experience.

5. Quiet Spaces:
. If you need a break, ask our staff for directions to our designated quiet spaces.
. These areas are designed for relaxation and reflection.

6. Communication/calming Cards:
.Use the communication cards provided to express your needs to staff without speaking.

7. Sensory-Friendly Map:
.Check our sensory-friendly map to locate quieter areas and specific exhibits suitable for various sensory preferences.

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Wednesday 18/10/2023
Talking about Subjectivity and (sensory) access needs
Felicitas & Elnaz

-Partitioning
-working on the sensory kit
-Having different types of sensory kit:
. Sensory Research + samples
. Sensory kit
. Sensory kit for kids

- Making a stand at the entrance (slowing down part)with different shelves and hangers for the Noise-Canceling Headphones

- making a Sensory-Friendly Map based on the current exhibition ( Modding the Mirror World) which is a good case to work on for making a sensory kit.

Materials:

- A sturdy, portable table or countertop.
- A tablecloth or fabric cover to make it visually appealing.
Clear, labeled containers or compartments for each sensory item.
- Signage or labels to indicate the purpose of each container.
Any additional storage or display elements as needed.

...

Assembly Steps:

1- Choose a Suitable Table:
Select a table or countertop that is at an accessible height for all visitors. Make sure it's sturdy and can support the weight of the sensory items.

2- Cover the Table:
Add a tablecloth or fabric cover to make the stand look inviting and aesthetically pleasing. Choose calming, neutral colours that complement the sensory experience.

3- Arrange Sensory Items:
Place the containers or compartments on the table in an organized and visually appealing manner. Consider using clear containers so visitors can see the items inside.

4- Label Each Container:
Attach labels or signs to each container or compartment to indicate what's inside and how to use the items. Use clear and easy-to-understand language.

5- Create a "How-to" Sign:
Add a sign with instructions on how to use the sensory kit. Include a brief introduction and encourage visitors to take what they need for a more comfortable experience.

6- Ensure Accessibility:
Make sure the stand is accessible to all, including individuals with mobility challenges. Ensure there's enough space for wheelchairs or mobility devices to approach the stand comfortably.

7-Regular Maintenance:
Regularly check and restock the sensory kit items, replacing anything that's worn or used up. Ensure that the stand remains clean and organized.

8- Staff Assistance:
Consider having knowledgeable staff nearby to assist visitors, answer questions, and provide support in case anyone needs help in using the sensory kit.

9-Feedback Collection:
Provide a way for visitors to give feedback on their experience with the sensory kit. This can help in making improvements over time.

Remember that the design and layout of the sensory kit stand should be welcoming, organized, and easy to navigate, ensuring that visitors feel comfortable and empowered to use the sensory items as needed.

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11.30 Checking in and landing
11.15 Reading Introduction 'Accessibility in the Arts'
11.45 Sensory mapping
12.30 Reading (collective choice)

Some sensory map examples:

Links >>>

From the Accessibility workshop on the 07-12-2023 that Elnaz and Janel visited

"Protocol for curators" is a series of steps that an exhibition artist at Kunstinstituut Melly can use to make their own work more inclusive and accessible for visitors with mobile, auditory, visual and other impairments.

25-12-2024, Elnaz
Following Felicita's above update I add the handout we received during the Accessibility workshop on 7th December 2023:

Meeting Notes on the Sensory Toolkit with Felicitas, 25-01-2024
Elnaz

To prepare hosts for the upcoming meeting on January 26th, we'll be crafting an instructive approach using the Sensory Toolkit. Here's the plan:

Collect Preferences:

Hosts will begin by selecting items from the sensory toolkit that resonate with them.

1. Artwork Connection:
After the initial selection, hosts will choose an artwork and match its mood with a sensory item from their chosen selection.

2. Feelings Documentation:
Hosts are encouraged to document their emotions and reasons for selecting specific items, creating a personal connection.

3. Reverse Process:
To deepen the experience, hosts will reverse the process, starting with a sensory item and then selecting an artwork based on its resonance.


Additionally:

-Kit Distribution:
Prepare separate kits for hosts and visitors.
Experiment with the visitor's kit during the final weeks of the Jin exhibition (Arriving Not Yet) and later during Caithlin's exhibition (UNA NOS TA UNDA NOS POR BAY).

-Exhibition Specific:
Tailor kits for different emotions, ranging from Soft/Calm to intense/agitated.
Label each kit with clear signage representing its emotional category.
This thoughtful approach ensures a comprehensive exploration of the Sensory Toolkit, allowing for an immersive experience for both hosts and visitors across multiple exhibitions.

Calm/Tranquil Kit - Peaceful/Relaxed Kit - Balanced/Neutral Kit - Agitated/Anxious Kit

Summary of Sensory tool-kit Research: 29-01-2024

Key considerations:

1- Selection of items to prevent overwhelming individuals.
2- Target audience: hosts or visitors?

Toolkit for Hosts:

Items:

. Compact box containing essential objects.
. Placement of various items on the host's desk for quick access during emergencies, such as emergency contact numbers or a soft-textured surface for tactile comfort.
. Installation of a fidget toy underneath the host's desk.
. Keys
. Snacks
. Phone and valuable personal objects

Key Features:

. Consistent color or design theme for all sensory tools.
. Integration of magnetic components for ease of attachment, suitable for metal host desks. Example: Magnetic puzzle ball -->
. Modular design allowing for easy detachment and reassembly.
. Emphasis on simplicity and accessibility.
. Consideration of clay as a material, offering opportunities for embedding objects and carving or glazing emergency contact information.

Summary of Sensory tool-kit Research: 5-02-2024

Discussion on designing sensory tool-kits based on previous research:

. Introduction of a bag concept, akin to those used by café staff, for carrying necessary items.
. Emphasis on lightweight and simple design for ease of use.
. Inclusion of at least 2 sensory objects and 3 essential personal items.
. Suggestion to utilize Velcro for securing items and a karabiner for hanging keys.
. Proposal for a small bottle of calming scent as a sensory item.

Summary:

The sensory tool-kit comprises two main sections: Personal (Necessity) items & Sensory (optional) items

Personal (Necessity) items may include:

Wallet
Phone
Sticky notes
Emergency numbers
Pens
Keys (secured with karabiner)
Scent box
Snack

Optional Sensory items may include:

Sunglasses
Noise canceling headphones
Fidget toy
Textile for tactile comfort
Calming scent, etc.

karabiner

Inspirations

Discussing next steps and sourcing materials for potential budget: 19/02/2024 (Martina and Elnaz)

Summary:

- Discussed next steps for the host tool-kit.

- "Field work": On the way to scrap, we stopped by Decathlon to get a look at functional bags, that are often designed as crossbody bags or work bags (ones placed on the hips or shoulders). We took note of the essential areas between each bag, which pocket placements are prominent and how were the straps designed to be multifunctional yet also adjustable. We focused on the features which would make tools accessible for the host.

- Later on we went to Scrap XL, to look for any potential material that can be used for the prototype stage and final stages of the tool-kit bag. We took note of the prices to plan a budget but also took images of 'samples' we liked' We noted the different materials and their potential uses:

Examples:

Suede: soft and soothing feeling for an other shell
Leather: Durable work material
Netting: can be used to make side pockets
Strings and thick bands: material for shoulder/ hip straps but also can be used to make loops for the potential carabiner, to make the keys to the showroom more accessible for the host.

- After visiting both of these places, we sat down to list all the potential materials we might need, while also differentiating the labour activities as phase 1 (prototype phase) and phase 2 (final product).
- Martina had some fabrics in her studio that we will use as prototype material for the bag.

Martina's sketches: pre-protoype/ conceptual idea: (21/02/2024)

Budget Calculations for Sensory (Necessary) Tool-kit


1. Prototype:

Materials (from scrap): €30
Accessories:
Velcro: €15
Karabiner/Hanger: €10
Elastic straps + buckles: €15
Rings & buttons: €10
Total: €50

Production:
Sketches + making: 10 hours at €20/hour
Total: €200



2. Pilot Version:

Materials: Fabric + accessories (€50 + €70)
Total: €120

Production: (10 hours at €20/hour)
Total: €240

Tools: €50

Overall Total:

Estimated costs: €690
Rounded to: €700

Finalised plan for toolkit/bag:
3rd week of March:

Monday 11th:
- Ten mins of planning upcoming weeks, to set deadlines and goals per week.
- Finalise the sketch/ diagram and materials with measurements for the bag construction prototype.
- Elnaz: will try the sewing machine, to test out potential stitching swatches.

Tuesday 12th:
- Elnaz: will finalise the shopping list for materials. 


Thursday 14th:
- 1 hour of buying finalised supplies for the bag prototype.


4th week of March:

Monday 18th:
11am-6pm:
- Start cutting panels, sewing pieces together. Getting a first glimpse into the bag prototype.
- End of day: evaluating the first session of sewing, asking if the prototype works in form and functionality.

Tuesday 19th:
11.30am-2.30pm:
- After the staff meeting, Elnaz and Martina will finalise the sewing of the bag to make sure it is ready for next week. The second phase will focus on the attachments such as the rings, carabiner, tightening straps, etc…

5th week of March:

Monday 25th
11am-6pm:
- Focusing on gathering feedback from the rest of the team, possibly everyone gets to try on the bag.
- After gathering feedback and trying out the bag, we will focus on the final details and polishing up the last steps (last sewing, amending any straps, attaching new carabiners, etc….).

Side notes about the pouch: Experiences from the workshop within the team, reflecting the sensory parts of the digital map into the sensory pouch on the belt. For example: certain smells, textures and lighting condition could be put into the sensory pouch.

First sewing session: 18/03/2024

- Documentation from the first sewing session. We went ahead and started to draft what we sketched out on paper, eventually sewing it to test out the durability and comfort of the sensory kit/ hosting kit.

- We questioned along the way, always keeping in mind the comfort of the host, to ensure a sense of security as a tool but also, it should not be seen as an accessory, but rather as a tool which enhances the hosting experience.

- We tried it amongst the three of us, keeping notes of measurements and even started to work on the attachments and pockets.

Adding the pouches: for phone, essential objects and also testing out the envelope pouch

Discussing reduction in length - 'pinching' fold

Second sewing session : 25/03/2024

- In this short session, we planned the cutting of each panel that would be used as either a small pouch while also planning the general outline of the large pouch that will resemble the envelope.

Multiple options for possible pouches within the large envelope pouch

Layering the mobile/ essential pouch with many pockets on top

Third sewing session: 02/04/2024

- In this session, we focused on sewing up the panels that we had cut from the week before. We noticed along the way some mistakes, so re-opening and reconstructing certain pockets was essential.

- Since Tuesday is usually a busy day at the office, Fay came by to see what we are working on and we thought it would be great to receive feedback from an office staff member. Fay liked the comfort of the object and that it fits to the hosts' needs, especially the functionality of the piece but also interested as to how different people wear the object.