Artistic Experience of the Visually Impaired: A Qualitative Study on the Process of Creating Clay Media Artworks for Low Vision in Indonesia

This study explores the artistic experiences of individuals with low vision in creating clay-based artworks at the Pandawa Social Home for Blind Sensory Disabilities in Kudus Regency, Indonesia. The research used a qualitative, descriptive-exploratory design, and fifteen participants with varying levels of visual impairment were involved. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews, observations, and analysis of their clay creations. The findings reveal that clay, with its tactile qualities, serves as an effective medium for creative expression, enabling participants to explore form through touch and pressure. This process supported the development of fine motor skills, creativity, and self-confidence while fostering emotional well-being and social interaction. Participants relied on memory, imagination, and sensory perception to produce artworks that held personal and aesthetic meaning, despite differing from conventional visual standards. The study underscores the therapeutic benefits of clay art and highlights the crucial role of supportive environments—families, educators, and art communities—in nurturing creativity and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments. The limitations of this study include its small sample size, its single-institution approach, and its focus on clay. Future research should expand the participant pool, explore other accessible art media, and examine the long-term impact on psychosocial development.