We make the impossible possible for over 285M blind and visually impaired people around the world.

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FROM INCEPTION TO CREATION

John Olson’s journey to bringing Tactile Images to life.

Tactile Images was founded in 2008 with one promise in mind:

To increase engagement, accessibility, and inclusion for those who are blind and visually impaired.

As a former staff photographer for LIFE Magazine, John’s livelihood involved creating and distributing imagery. An invitation from the National Federation of the Blind led to a decade-long partnership with leaders and members of the organization. This partnership made him keenly aware of the need and desire for accessible imagery, instilling in him the belief that for those without sight, access to tactile images represents a means to greater freedom, independence, and equality.

At Tactile Images, we fulfill our promise using our patented technology that integrates sensory stimulants through 3D, tactile renderings of images to deliver visual information to the brain through an enhanced, completely accessible, kinesthetic experience.

OUR PURPOSE

We bring visual information to life for the visually impaired.

Understanding who we are starts with knowing what we stand for. Learn more about the origins of Tactile Images.

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Why choose Tactile Images?

There’s more to us than meets the eye.

A PRODUCT WITH PURPOSE

Our patented products and technology have been developed together with the blind and visually impaired community.

GLOBAL REACH

Our tactile installations can be found all over the globe, reaching blind and visually impaired communities worldwide.

ACCESSIBILITY FIRST

Our mission is to make all forms of visual information accessible to everyone.

When I experience a painting on my own, without someone explaining it to me, that represents freedom, independence, and equality.

OUR COLLABORATORS AND SPONSORS

We are grateful for the support of other dedicated organizations in all our endeavors.

Getty Images

We have partnered with Getty Images to make more than 45 million images available for exhibits and installations across all subjects, disciplines, and genres.

The National Federation of the Blind

We are proud partners of The National Federation of the Blind and are committed to delivering on our promise of freedom, independence, and equality for all.

RECENT HEADLINES

Hear the latest news on our company, projects, and more.

PARTNER WITH US

Help make images more accessible at your institution.

Traveling exhibits

Experience tactile images firsthand at one of our traveling exhibitions available around the world.

Learn more

Custom projects

Have a project in mind? Work with us to create a custom installation for your institution.

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Interested in hosting a traveling exhibition?

Start planning with us.