November 11, 2025
Ferris State exhibit ‘Optical Empathy’ highlights visual perception in collaboration with the Michigan College of Optometry.
Exploring the nature of visual perception, the exhibit, Optical Empathy, derives from a meaningful family story to connect with Ferris State University’s Michigan College of Optometry.
Optical Empathy is an interactive installation, featuring the work of artist Colleen Woolpert, exploring the nature of visual perception. It runs through Nov. 26 at the Fine Art Galley inside the David L. Eisler Center, 805 Campus Drive.
The inspiration of Optical Empathy stems from Woolpert's identical twin sister, Rani, who was born with strabismus, causing her to lack depth perception. The exhibit portrays the idea and fascination of how two genetically identical people can experience the world so differently.
In 2000, Woolpert came across a vintage stereoscope and a set of stereographs in an antique store, an encounter that deepened her understanding of how binocular vision creates depth. This discovery became a turning point in her artistic practice. Since then, Woolpert has developed and patented her own stereoscope, created original 3D images, and invited audiences to share her exploration of visual experience.
The exhibition brings together Woolpert’s photography, antique stereoscopes and stereographs, 3D imagery, and video. Visitors are encouraged to engage directly with the work, using her stereoscopes and 3D glasses to experience perception in new and surprising ways.
“What makes this exhibition unusual and special is its interactive nature,” said Carrie Weis, Fine Arts Gallery and Museum Director. “Few artists invite viewers to physically engage with the artwork, but Optical Empathy encourages exactly that. Rather than being passive observers, visitors become active participants—explorers in understanding how people experience vision differently.”
Optical Empathy is an opportunity for the university to offer a glimpse into another person’s way of seeing and fostering empathy to deepen appreciation for the unique ways others perceive the world.
This exhibit not only opens the university’s eyes to different perspectives but also connects with the Michigan College of Optometry held on campus.
Students in the Michigan College of Optometry study a range of vision conditions and therapeutic techniques designed to improve visual function. The connection between art and vision science came to life through Colleen and Rani, whose personal story directly relates to the themes explored in Optical Empathy.
The optometry students were invited to the gallery for a dinner and presentation featuring both Colleen and Rani.
“Hearing firsthand from someone who experienced such a positive outcome through Vision Therapy was an inspiring and memorable experience,” Weis said. “After the presentation, students explored the interactive exhibition and had their group photo taken as a 3D image by Colleen.”
MCO professor Paula McDowell and Colleen plan to work with students on special studies and senior thesis projects.
“Every show opens a new world of ideas, history, and creative expression. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of artists—each with their own story to tell and perspective to share,” Weis said.
Ferris State’s Fine Art Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission to the gallery and exhibit is free.