Light sculpture to raise awareness of colour blindness

Light sculpture to raise awareness of colour blindness

In an effort to spread awareness of color blindness, a light sculpture honoring Aston Villa football player Tyrone Mings has been installed at Aston University.

About 3 million persons in the UK, or 4.5% of the population, are color blind, with men making up the majority of this group. About 300 million people suffer from color blindness worldwide, according to estimates.

The tournament, called “Shining a Light on Color Blindness,” was started by the nonprofit Color Blind Awareness with help from the Aston Villa Foundation and other football club foundations. A colorful illustration of their preferred football player was requested from young fans to participate. The winning submission was later turned into a Christmas light.

As part of their continuous collaboration, the Aston Villa Foundation and Aston University converted the winning piece of art into a light feature, which was then chosen to be shown inside the paediatrics bay of the Vision Sciences building at Aston University.

A nonprofit organization called Color Blind Awareness was created to draw attention to the importance and effects of color blindness among persons who have it, notably the difficulties in sports.

Leo remarked of his competition-winning drawing: “I am very proud that my picture won the competition and that Tyrone Mings liked it. I now better understand what being colour blind means and I hope my picture has helped someone else.”

Cheryl Evans, Leo’s Mum, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of Leo and the fact that his drawing is of his favourite player Tyrone Mings makes it even more special. This competition has meant that as a family we have had many conversations about colour blindness and it has educated us all more on this topic. Well done Leo!”

Kathryn Albany-Ward, CEO at Colour Blind Awareness CIC, said: “Aston Villa Foundation’s entry from Leo charmed the judges and who were delighted to award it first prize. We’re very grateful to Aston University for hosting the light feature and can’t wait to see it displayed. We hope its location in the Vision Sciences Department will help raise more awareness of a condition which affects 8% of boys and 0.5% of girls worldwide, impacting on their education and ability to perform to their best in sport if left unsupported.”

Ross said: “The Aston Villa Foundation would like to say a big congratulations to Leo for his amazing achievement! This is a really proud moment for Leo and we are thrilled that he was inspired by his favourite Aston Villa player. 

“It has also been a pleasure to have supported Colour Blind Awareness, who have done some great work in highlighting such an important and relevant topic during our coaching team’s workforce development. The support has culminated in a competition that was won by Leo, a participant in one of our Football in the Community holiday sessions. 

“The stunning light feature of Tyrone Mings will now be housed at Aston University for all to see and we are grateful for the University’s ongoing support with the Club.”