About this Short Film
Love is Blind by Rheia Edgar Nemec (New Zealand, 2014) unfolds as a quiet, intimate exchange in an art gallery between a staff member and a woman who is blind, who explains that she “listens to the art” and even tries painting herself. From this simple premise the film explores perception, access and companionship with a gentle, conversational tone that balances curiosity, warmth and wry humour. Viewers are invited to reconsider how art can be experienced beyond sight and to appreciate the everyday negotiations of belonging in public cultural spaces. Concise and human-centred, Love is Blind offers thoughtful reflection on sensory diversity and inclusion, a fitting piece for the Focus on Ability festival.
Film Details
Film Transcript
"He sure did. I'm sure it is beautiful."
"Oh, I'm so sorry. I didn't realise."
"That's all right. Many people have eyes but they do not see."
"Can you see it at all, if you don't mind me asking?"
"No, I can't, but I can listen to the art. You know the expression, art speaks to the soul. I can listen to art. Mind you, I don't mind people explaining and describing the colours to me."
"Well, I'd love to show you around the gallery."
"You must work here?"
"I do. I moved here after the Christchurch bike. The owner's never here, so it's my home really. I spend more time than I really should."
"Why are you here if you can't see?"
"I wasn't always like this. I was 19 and reckless, and someone shot a firework into my face. I was lucky my whole face didn't slide off."
"But you, my young friend, you must love art. It's an escape from reality."
"Really. I would like to paint as well. Would you like to try?"
"Oh yes, yes. Oh wow — it's — it's beautiful."
"Stella, is everything okay here?"
"Yes, we were just admiring."
"Wow, it's stunning."
"And it's not — it's not a — I just don't recognise —"
"Yes, it's new."
"Well look, I really want it. I would pay a hundred thousand for it. It just... it speaks to my soul."
Filmmaker
Rheia Edgar Nemec is the filmmaker behind this entry. See every Focus on Ability entry from Rheia Edgar Nemec.
Inspirational Very Well Made.