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The John M. Parrott Art Gallery proudly presents ‘Change and Challenge: A Journey through Migration,’ an inspiring solo tactile art exhibit by award-winning artist Lynda Todd from March 1 to April 2 at 254 Pinnacle St., Belleville (third floor).
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This one-of-a-kind, fully accessible art experience invites visitors to engage with tactile, textured artworks that celebrate the beauty of migration while breaking barriers in the art world.
Known for her tactile artistry, Todd has gained acclaim for blending accessibility with environmental storytelling, making her art both inclusive and impactful.
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The Opening Reception on Saturday, March 1, from 2 to 4 p.m. Meet the artist, explore the exhibit, and engage with the meaningful stories behind each piece.
Todd, a visually impaired and colour-blind artist, has created an inclusive art experience allowing attendees to engage her work through touch—a rare opportunity in art.
The exhibit features textured depictions of wolves, elephants, whooping cranes, whales, and butterflies, spotlighting the critical challenges of habitat loss and climate change.
“Art connects us to the natural world and to one another. Through this exhibit, I hope to spark meaningful conversations and inspire action to protect endangered species and their fragile habitats,” Todd said.
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With unprecedented support from the CNIB, accessibility organizations, and local schools, this exhibit is a game-changer in making art inclusive for everyone. Walter Dickinson, CNIB Next Generation Program Lead, who has arranged for a busload of CNIB members from Toronto to attend, shares his thoughts:
“Thank you for doing what you do and for being fearless in your pursuit of creativity. You will be an inspiration to the youth and kids I work with, and your work will show them that their creative efforts matter.”
In addition to CNIB Ottawa promoting participation and hosting the closing reception on April 2, multiple Belleville-area schools will bring students to explore accessibility in the arts firsthand. This exhibition is not just an art show—it’s a movement toward inclusivity, education, and engagement.
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This exhibit was created with the support of the Ontario Arts Council and the Government of Ontario.
Located in an accessible venue, the gallery ensures all visitors can fully engage with this unique exhibit. Every artwork is paired with large-print and braille labels and audio descriptions, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors.” In ‘Change and Challenge: A Journey through Migration,’ touching the art is not just allowed—it’s encouraged.”
In keeping with her advocacy, Todd will donate a portion of the proceeds to the Canadian National Institute of the Blind’s (CNIB) Next Generation program, which empowers the visually impaired community.
Following its debut in Belleville, Todd’s art will appear at the Cobourg Library Gallery, Campbellford Gallery, and Toronto’s Tangled Arts Gallery. Internationally, her work will also be featured in the Khaki Takatsuki City Museum of Art catalogue in Japan. www.lyndatodd.com
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