Tactile Art Club - Abstract String Art

Tactile Art Club is officially continuing over the summer! While the club was originally only active during the school year, the growing interest allowed us to continue providing virtual programming over the summer. The summers will be focused on using household material in unconventional ways, and creating an open studio space free from formal instruction.

This month, we delved into abstract art making by creating raised line art using strings! In these projects, participants explored different patterns, textures, and shapes by gluing string to their canvases. Afterwards, they could decorate their creations with tinfoil, paper, cotton balls, or other household materials to create dynamic pieces. 

In this way, we experimented with textures and shapes and learned different types of raised line drawing and collaging techniques. The club continues to spread creativity through accessible art online. We are excited to continue forming a global community and form connections with each other through this time.

Please find attached a few photos of sample string arts that students created:

Person with Glasses: Side Profile

A single-line drawing of a person with glasses using brown string. The artist uses many loops and curved lines.

Abstract Face: front view

A single line drawing of a face using looping technique and black string.

Lineart with three faces

Three faces are arranged in a zigzag pattern. The color gradient goes from black, brown, and beige string.

Person with Glasses: Side Profile

Person with Glasses: Side Profile with Abstract Face: Front View

Abstract Face: 3/4 View

A beige face consisting of curved lines with one eye and geometric lips.

To make your own abstract pieces, here is a transcript of the instructions. These instructions will include a materials list and steps. This is a basic template that will give you a starting point to create a beautiful ornament. Feel free to customize it to express yourself and create something unique. 

Materials: 

Essential:

• String, yarn, wire, or clay (anything that can make a raised line on a surface)

• Glue 

• A cardboard square (usually from an old box), canvas or paper (ideally thicker works best)

Optional:

• Tin foil

• Markers, pens, or any other decorating items

Steps: 

1. Lay your canvas, cardboard, or piece of paper flat on your table 

2. Now, paint this canvas with glue.

3. Using your fingers, create a simple raised line drawing out of string. This can be loops, a spiral, some lines, or geometric shapes! 

4. Stick your lines to the canvas. To do so, press fimly with the back of your glue stick/ bottle as you trace your design. You can also add more glue along your design.

5. Decorate! You can:

   1. Overlay some tin foil on top and rub to reveal raised lines

   2. Collage paper between the string shapes

   3. Color parts of the canvas separated by the string

   4. Layer other materials on top of the string

Or come up with decoration ideas of your own!

Tags:
#tactilceart, #Artfortheblind, #touchart, #visuallyimpaired, #blindartist,, #accessibleart, #artforall, #sensoryart, #BlindandVI, #accessibility, #inclusion, #artmuseums, #artforeveryone, #accessiblemuseum
Art for the visually impaired, Art for the Blind