If you or someone you know lives with vision loss, there's an opportunity later this month to enjoy a groundbreaking art exhibition right here in New Hampshire.

The New Hampshire State Library Talking Book Services for Blind and Physically Handicapped New Hampshire Residents is partnering with the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester to celebrate "Art Beyond Sight Awareness Month" on October 20 from 2:00-4:00 p.m.

Eight library patrons registered in the New Hampshire Talking Book Services program, each accompanied by a sighted companion, will participate in a private, verbal description tour of the special exhibition Andy Warhol: Pop Politics, which is at the Currier through January 4, 2009. This exhibition presents, together for the first time, Warhol's paintings, prints, drawings and photographs of political figures.

"Many people are under the mistaken impression that visual art is not accessible to those who live with vision loss," said the New Hampshire State Library's John Barrett. "Just as the New Hampshire State Library's Talking Books Service makes it possible for visually impaired people to enjoy literature, 'Art Beyond Sight Awareness Month' has found a way to bring the beauty and power of visual art to those who might not otherwise be able to experience it"

Timed to coincide with the 2008 presidential election, Andy Warhol: Pop Politics offers a thought-provoking and entertaining look at the leaders who shaped the twentieth century, as portrayed by one of America's best-known artists.

"We are so pleased to be able to offer this unique experience to New Hampshire
residents who experience vision loss," said Leah Fox, director of public programs at the Currier. "Part of the Currier's mission is to be a leader in developing innovative learning experiences that increase people's understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of the arts and humanities, and participating in 'Art Beyond Awareness Month' is just one way we are working to reach that goal."

Those wishing to reserve a space for the October 20 program must be registered with the New Hampshire State Library Talking Book Services program. They may do so by calling 800-491-4200 (toll free).

"Art Beyond Sight Awareness Month" is an international initiative to promote art by and for people with vision loss and other disabilities, and to encourage multimodal approaches to art education and creativity. It is organized by Art Education for the Blind and its more than 200 Art Beyond Sight Collaborative partners around the world. For more information, visit www.artbeyondsight.org.

The New Hampshire State Library promotes excellence in libraries and library services to all New Hampshire residents, by assisting libraries and the people of New Hampshire with rapid access to library and informational resources through the development and coordination of a statewide library/information system, by meeting the informational needs of New Hampshire's state, county and municipal governments and its libraries, and by serving as a resource for New Hampshire. For more information, visit www.nh.gov/nhsl.

The Currier Museum of Art is an internationally renowned art museum located in Manchester, New Hampshire. The Currier features European and American paintings, decorative arts, photographs and sculpture, including works by Picasso, Monet, O'Keeffe, Wyeth, and LeWitt with exhibitions, tours, and programs year-round. The museum also offers tours of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Zimmerman House—reservations required. The Currier Museum Art Center offers studio workshops and classes for children and adults. The Currier Museum of Art is accredited by the American Association of Museums. For more information, visit http://www.currier.org.