A new three-part radio series explores the impact of sensory changes on artistic creation, beginning with an examination of how sight loss influences artists’ work and perception. Hosted by sociologist and ethicist Professor Tom Shakespeare, the programme delves into the ways in which visual impairment shapes both the creative process and the lived experience of artists.

In the opening episode, Shakespeare engages with multiple practitioners who have experienced varying degrees of sight loss. These conversations highlight adaptations in technique, shifts in conceptual approaches, and new modes of interaction with materials and space. The artists discuss how their diminishing or altered vision challenges traditional methods yet also opens avenues for innovation and expression that were previously unexplored.

The series situates the conversation within a broader context of sensory experience and artistic practice, emphasizing the interplay between physical ability and creative output. Through personal accounts and analysis, it addresses the multifaceted relationship between perception and creation, offering listeners insight into how changes in sensory faculties can redefine the landscape of art.

Broadcast on Radio 4 at 4 p.m., the programme aims to raise awareness about the diversity of artistic experiences and to challenge conventional understandings of sight as a prerequisite for artistic achievement. By foregrounding the voices of artists navigating sight loss, it presents a nuanced perspective on resilience, adaptation, and the evolving nature of artistic identity.