Colour blindness is a genetic disorder affecting an estimated 4% of the population. The KMSKA is now experimenting with special glasses that increase the contrast between conflicting colours and 75% of colour-blind people will benefit.
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The temporary retrospective Venster op het oneindige (Window on Infinity) by artist Jef Verheyen is running at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) until 18 August 2024. Among other things, it uses many different shades of colour. This led a museum public affairs officer to look for a solution for people like his brother and stepfather, both of whom are colour blind. He ended up with EnChroma lens technology from an optician in Bredene.
Simply put on the glasses and what may, at first, appear to be a white surface immediately unfolds in its colourful splendour. The brain makes a more accurate assessment because the lenses filter the light. Red, green, brown and purple are experienced more intensely and accurately. Pink no longer looks like beige or grey. The glasses do not cure the disorder, however, it is just a trick to outwit the brain. To provide definitive relief, the cones in the retina must be corrected. Be patient, science is working on it.
For now, colour-blind people should visit the KMSKA if they want to perceive accurate colours. In addition, those who want to continuously enjoy flowers and trees in their full glory or appreciate the hues of a sunrise or sunset can buy these special glasses for €300.
