Stellantis Autonomy, the accessible mobility program from the Stellantis Group, is expanding its reach into the cultural sphere with a new initiative called Autonomy for Art. The project, unveiled at the GAM – Galleria Civica d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea in Turin, aims to make art more accessible to all by addressing sensory and linguistic barriers.
Developed by Forword, an association specializing in museum and audiovisual accessibility, Autonomy for Art introduces multisensory cards and accessible digital content. These resources enhance the experience for visitors with sensory, cognitive, and motor disabilities while enriching the visit for all audiences.
Multisensory Tools for an Inclusive Experience
The core of the initiative is seven new multisensory cards focused on selected works from GAM’s Deposito Vivente. These tactile guides are paired with audio-described videos, subtitled in Italian and English, and translated into Italian Sign Language (LIS) and International Sign (IS).
According to Stellantis, tactile cards are among the most effective tools for museum accessibility. Recent studies cited by the company show that 85% of visitors use them, highlighting their ability to enhance the experience for diverse audiences, not just those with visual impairments.
Autonomy for Art also includes visual video stories with voiceovers in Italian and English. These videos describe the museum’s spaces, helping visitors prepare for their visit. Like the multisensory cards, they are audio-described, subtitled, and translated into LIS and IS.
This initiative builds on GAM’s existing commitment to removing physical, sensory, and cultural barriers. Through its Education Department, the museum promotes tools and pathways that make it an open, welcoming, and participatory space.
Chiara Bertola, Director of GAM, stated, “Ensuring broader access to cultural heritage is a priority for GAM and the Fondazione Torino Musei. We believe it’s essential to build alliances with entities that share this responsibility and invest in projects that create social and cultural value.
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Salvatore Cardile, Marketing LCV & Autonomy Director at Stellantis, added, “Autonomy for Art is a natural evolution of Stellantis Autonomy’s commitment to concrete inclusion. Making art accessible means promoting participation, valuing diversity, and offering everyone the opportunity to experience cultural heritage without barriers. We’re pleased to support this initiative with the Galleria d’Arte Moderna in Turin, believing that accessibility drives social and cultural growth.”
Stellantis Autonomy, known for its work in accessible mobility solutions, is now extending its inclusivity efforts to the cultural sector. Through Autonomy for Art, it aims to promote autonomy and participation in experiencing artistic heritage.
The project’s multisensory cards and digital content are designed to make GAM’s collections more inclusive, ensuring that visitors with diverse needs can fully engage with the art. As museums increasingly focus on accessibility, initiatives like Autonomy for Art set a precedent for how cultural spaces can adapt to serve all audiences.
Expanding Accessibility Beyond Physical Spaces
Autonomy for Art extends GAM’s commitment to accessibility beyond physical barriers. The museum’s Education Department has long promoted tools and pathways to create an open, welcoming, and participatory environment.
The visual video stories, with voiceovers in Italian and English, describe the museum’s spaces, aiding visitors in preparing for their visit. These videos are particularly useful for those who benefit from knowing the environment in advance, helping them feel more prepared and at ease during their museum experience.
A Model for Public-Private Collaboration
The project was officially presented on September 24, 2026, marking a significant step in GAM’s ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility. With seven multisensory cards and detailed digital content, Autonomy for Art ensures that GAM’s collections are more inclusive than ever, allowing visitors with diverse needs to fully engage with the art.
Public-Private Collaboration for Cultural Accessibility
This project aligns with the museum’s long-standing focus on eliminating physical, sensory, and cultural barriers. The GAM’s Education Department promotes initiatives and tools that create an open, welcoming, and participatory environment. By partnering with Stellantis Autonomy, the museum strengthens its commitment to accessibility, ensuring a more inclusive experience for all visitors.
