Humboldt Forum

What is it?

The exhibition ”Berlin Global” at the Humboldt Forum in Berlin provides visitors with a diverse perspective over an effervescent contemporary city. Blind and low-sighted persons have the possibility to experience the exhibition at their pace following a well-marked path and based on stations where not only Braille labels are provided but also other sensorial experiences to compensate for what cannot be seen.

Why is it important? / How can it help the professionals of the cultural sector?

For museum professionals it is of particular importance to be able to approach each target group in their own language, mediating the transmission of meaning in a manner that is comfortable for the end-user.

Project /organisation name

Humboldt Forum

Where (country / region)

Berlin, Germany

Type of institution

Museum

Permanent or temporary exhibition / project

Permanent

Date

Since 2021

Physical / digital

Physical

Public targeted

Blind and people with sight impairments

Device/ inclusive features

There are physical tracks for the blind people all through the exhibition. There are several stations where people can smell various aromas of the city (rats, grass etc.), and then further on can also taste various condiments (pepper, garlic, etc.)

Collaborations / partners

Funding

Replicability/adaptability

The concept can be adapted in all interested exhibitions/ museums, so that local communities can become more aware of the existence and of the needs of blind and low-sighted persons.

Photos / videos to illustrate the good practice

Results / impact

Basically everyone who visits the exhibition has the chance to enjoy sensorial experience as well and thus have a more memorable visit. It is known that memory works better if there are triggers such a performed activity that is linked to a certain information, a sense that is activated in relation to a certain information/ activity.

Testimonials

”I enjoyed smelling grass and dogs and rats in the exhibition. I did not know that museums have a smell!”

Tadeus Victor Hriban, 10-year-old visitor in February 2024.

Museo Archeologico Nacional

Dialog im Dunkeln