The Inclusivity of Art in City Space. Activities of Researchers from the University of Lodz to Support People with Sensory Disabilities. A Case Study from Lodz (Poland)

 Projects dedicated to addressing the accessibility of art for visually impaired individuals have been conducted at the Institute of Art History, University of Lodz, since 2013. This chapter focuses on four projects realized in collaboration with local museums, all aiming to support the full participation of people with sensory disabilities in culture. These projects employ digital technology, as well as dedicated typhlographics, Braille books, and spatial objects. Additionally, lectures, meetings, trips, and movie showings are interpreted into sign language. Such initiatives align with the positive changes brought by the Polish Accessibility Act. The most significant projects include “Lodz Art Against the Background of European Art. Excluded/Included” (2019–2022) and “Friendly City. Supporting the Independence of Visually Impaired People in Using the Public Transport Network in Lodz,” which includes an application for locational information and local architectural monuments (2021–2024). Both projects are funded by the National Center for Research and Development. Drawing from years of research experience, this chapter presents various methods and forms of using both tactile and digital tools to support audio description.