A mobile art gallery application example in the context of interface design analyses aimed at developing spatial perception in visually impaired individuals

This study encompasses the design and evaluation process of a mobile application titled "B612 Art Gallery," developed to enhance access to artworks and support spatial perception in digital environments for individuals who are visually impaired. As part of the research, the concept of visual impairment, accessibility requirements in digital environments, and existing practices in the field of graphic design were examined. A theoretical framework was established through discussions on accessible interface design, spatial perception, and examples of digital museums and art galleries. During the development phase, an accessible mobile interface was designed using Figma in line with accessibility principles. The interface incorporated features aimed at enriching the user experience for visually impaired individuals, including high-contrast color options and adjustable typefaces. The designed interface was then transferred to software, and further enriched with functionalities such as audio descriptions, screen reader-compatible labeling, and stereo sound. In the qualitative research phase, the application prototype was tested with 10 visually impaired participants through individual online sessions. User experiences were observed with Android-compatible screen readers such as TalkBack and Voice Assistant, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed that participants generally found the application to be accessible, comprehensible, and supportive in terms of navigation. In particular, audio descriptions and spatial audio cues were noted to enhance the perception of space. However, participants also suggested improvements in areas such as voice controls, easier access to accessibility settings, and the availability of voice options. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the significance of producing accessible digital cultural content within the domains of graphic design and user experience. It presents an exemplary model for promoting the participation of visually impaired individuals in digital art experiences, enabling a more meaningful, independent, and inclusive engagement with the arts.