San Vito plans a sensory museum: tactile works and 3D models for all

A museum you can touch: the San Vito sensory project

San Vito al Tagliamento is developing a sensory museum featuring artworks designed to be experienced by touch. The initiative focuses on cultural accessibility, offering people with visual impairment — and the wider public — an alternative way to engage with art.

The project is led by the municipal administration together with Polaris (Friends of the Spoken Book), which already holds several tactile bas-reliefs. The plan includes reproducing more works using contact-safe materials such as special resins and adding 3D models — for example, representations of local plants and landmarks — making the museum one of the few of its kind in Italy.

Location and exhibition

A historic building in the town is under consideration to host the collection, aiming to enhance the cultural offer and use well-known public spaces. The display will combine works by local artists with tactile reproductions of nationally recognized pieces.

Accessibility, management and costs

Organizers note that material costs are moderate; the main resources required are staffing, volunteer coordination and training for tactile-guided visits. The initiative relies heavily on community volunteers and cooperation with local cultural organizations.

Current activities

Before a permanent opening, temporary tactile paths and multisensory workshops have been launched. One such activity pairs tactile exploration with guided listening: participants, sometimes in the dark, are led by volunteers who provide audio descriptions, helping visitors focus on touch and sound to discover new details in the bas-reliefs.

Who it’s for and practical tips

• Audience: people with visual impairments, schools, families and anyone interested in sensory experiences.
• School visits: educational programs are planned for primary and secondary classes, with guided workshops.
• Access: check opening hours and book tactile-guided tours in advance to ensure the presence of trained guides.
• Volunteering: the project depends on volunteers; those interested should contact the municipality or local cultural associations.

The tactile museum pursues a dual goal: enhancing social inclusion by improving cultural access and offering educational opportunities to experience art through non-visual senses.