Sculptures by blind artist on display locally

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — Sculptures made by a blind artist have made their way to Youngstown.

Michael Naranjo says that as a young boy growing up in New Mexico, he always wanted to sculpt.

He was blinded in 1968 while serving in the army during the Vietnam War.

After Naranjo was injured, he was sent to a hospital in Japan, where he learned he could still make art. Now, some of his pieces are on display locally at the Butler Institute of American Art on Wick Avenue in Youngstown.

He encourages people to touch his sculptures because that’s how he is able to make and enjoy art.

“When I was in the hospital in Japan, I only had one good hand, and I couldn’t see anymore. So, I asked the volunteer for some clay, and I discovered I could still make something. So, after that, I knew I would still be a sculptor,” Naranjo said.

You can see and touch some of his work on display at the Butler now until Sept. 22.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.