A Spectrum of Experiences
Exhibition dates: November 14 - 21, 2023
Opening reception: Thursday, November 16th, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Eat and Repeat, acrylic and oil on panel, 2023
Invisible Forces, acrylic on panel, 2023
The Collectors, acrylic and oil on panel, 2023
Artist Statement
The current parameters for the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder is based solely on male experience and presentation; Resulting in the ratio of four to one in male to female diagnosis. This body of work aims to shine a light on the female autistic experience, using plants and animals as a metaphor, representing the unique ways autism presents in females. Stemming from the personal experience of being the mother of a teen girl on the spectrum, this series works to represent the range of traits expressed in women and girls living with autism. The subject matter conveys common presentations including masking, ritualistic ways of coping, gender specific special interests, and internal emotional manifestations paired with mutually held traits and symbology of plants and animals. As a body, each piece seeks to provide a window into the lived experience of a female on the spectrum, in order to raise awareness of the misconceptions surrounding autism.