Because Art is universal

So, a few weeks ago I wrote about the Artists of Autism Art Exhibition, brain child of photographer Karen and soon to be must see.

The official poster, go go go, check it out!

Well, I'm pleased to say the exhibition will kick off tomorrow at 2pm with a bang! With artists from all over the world, a stash of prizes and goodies up for grabs in the raffle and months spent planning, it's sure to be a hit.

I want to write this and get as many of you to even take a look at the facebook page. It's important that as many people as possible take a look, the more that see it the greater the promotion of autism awareness, and how better to do it than by looking at art. It's my idea of a great day out.

Using art to promote awareness, for me really goes to show two things. 1. That art is universal, it can be used to break down the barriers and stigma that surround 'disability'. Anyone and everyone can appreciate a good piece of art. And 2. It's a great way to show off the talents and special interests of those with autism and show the amazing things that can be created. In some ways, showing that obsessions, well, they may not all be bad for you.

A lot of work and effort has been put into getting the artists work all under one roof and getting the venue ready in the lead up to the event. It's worth a look.

Autism Art Exhibition

So recently I've got on board with the Autism Art Exhibition. I found them on twitter and have since spoken to them about my partner contributing to the event and have been asked to write a little piece about my blog.

In some ways this is a blessing in disguise. My other half is a talented artist and wants to exhibit her work. This is the very opportunity she's been waiting for. And for me, any exposure of my blog and anything I can do to help others understand what it is like to be with someone who has aspergers, then my job is done. I write this blog because in some ways I want to take away the barriers and stigma that have been built up against autism and aspergers. And this exhibition aims to do that exactly, to educate, inform and just showcase what talented and amazing people are out there. That autism is only part of that person and maybe the focus should be on the positive and talents that come with being on the spectrum.

When I was talking about this in the office I was asked if segregating herself and making a point of her autism was the right thing to do. My answer, it's part of her and it is something that in some ways shapes her. It affects her socially and it means she is obsessive over her special interest, which is drawing. Without aspergers, this obsession or special interest may not even exist. So in some ways its celebrating her art and how with aspergers she has become interested in art. And in all fairness, any showcase of her work and chance to let people see just what she can do, well isn't that important?


The Autism Art Exhibition is a way for people all over to contribute with their work, artists from all over the world have got involved. And it's a chance to really show off the variety of talents that those with autism have. The exhibition opens on June 7th and is running for a month in Yorkshire with plans to tour the UK in the future. For more information take a look at the exhibition page. It's worth it!

A little bit of graffiti