The Penumbra Zone
The catalogue documents a series of contemporary art workshops exploring non-visual perception, designed for blind and visually impaired participants. The publication aims to bridge two worlds: highlighting the accessible nature of modern art to visually impaired audiences, while offering sighted readers a profound insight into an alternative sensory perspective.
The project complies with the principles of adapting educational materials for the visually impaired. Working within these strict guidelines established a rigorous framework for the design process. The resulting generous format and dynamic, prominent column prioritize low-vision readers. This led to the decision to prioritize the text layer and descriptions, while reducing photographic documentation to a minimum. The content is also available as an audiobook and as text for e-readers.
The aim was to emphasise the publication’s relationship with contemporary art — hence the use of colouring of the edges and Swiss binding, which allows for a striking opening of the catalogue. Clear visual interventions applied to the photographs dividing the chapters serve as an artistic medium; their cognitive function is an attempt to familiarize the sighted reader with hindered perception, illustrating the difficulties faced by people with various visual impairments.
The project complies with the principles of adapting educational materials for the visually impaired. Working within these strict guidelines established a rigorous framework for the design process. The resulting generous format and dynamic, prominent column prioritize low-vision readers. This led to the decision to prioritize the text layer and descriptions, while reducing photographic documentation to a minimum. The content is also available as an audiobook and as text for e-readers.
The aim was to emphasise the publication’s relationship with contemporary art — hence the use of colouring of the edges and Swiss binding, which allows for a striking opening of the catalogue. Clear visual interventions applied to the photographs dividing the chapters serve as an artistic medium; their cognitive function is an attempt to familiarize the sighted reader with hindered perception, illustrating the difficulties faced by people with various visual impairments.
Art Direction
Idalia Smyczyńska
Robert Zając
Layout, Typesetting
& Photo Editing
Idalia Smyczyńska
Cover design
Robert Zając
Idalia Smyczyńska
Robert Zając
Layout, Typesetting
& Photo Editing
Idalia Smyczyńska
Cover design
Robert Zając
Client
Centre for Culture in Lublin
Publication date
2021
Language
Polish
Awards & recognition
2022Most Beautiful Polish Books Honorable Mention
2022Design of the Year Nomination
Centre for Culture in Lublin
Publication date
2021
Language
Polish
Awards & recognition
2022Most Beautiful Polish Books Honorable Mention
2022Design of the Year Nomination