Raita Steyn

4.42 Enhancing Human Perceptiveness through Visual Arts Education (Paper)

Raita Steyn – University of Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract:

This study emphasises the significance of broadening the artistic conceptualisation in higher education by integrating inclusive practices that value creative abilities beyond sight. Anchored in critical phenomenology, the paper questions the long-standing practice of defining artistic appreciation exclusively by sight, which excludes the visually impaired from both participation and creation in visual art forms. By bringing to the fore the potential of visually impaired individuals, the research explores innovative pedagogical approaches that challenge the traditional monopoly of vision in visual arts education. Pivotal to this analysis is the “infinity” stage of the design process, which, through continuous iteration between planning and execution phases, not only involves risk-taking and creative problem-solving but also incorporates surprise as a powerful pedagogical tool to evoke curiosity, anticipation, engagement with the unknown, and enhance creative motivation.

In practice, these concepts are substantiated by three case studies: 1) students navigated out of their comfort zones by continuing the design process using another group’s design plan, demonstrating adaptability and comparative analysis; 2) students designing tactile artworks, enhanced their skills through an experiential visit to a school for the visually impaired – an encounter that fostered empathy and sharpened critical thinking, as reflected in impactful artistic outcomes; 3) the impact of the element of surprise was revealed when the completed artworks by visually impaired and non-visually impaired were exhibited together. A retrospective approach functioned as an “eye-opening” revelation for the students, prompting students to reflect on their completed works and analyse the audience’s reactions and interactions. These cases advocate for a paradigm shift in art education to support educational equity and social inclusion. To ensure that art education nurtures diverse creative potentials and preserves human values, the research challenges stereotypes, fosters empathy, and advocates for inclusive learning environments.