Drawing Autism
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4.5 • 2 Ratings
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- $11.99
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- $11.99
Publisher Description
This “jaw-droppingly beautiful book” explores the work and creative process of artists diagnosed with ASD, with a foreword by Temple Grandin (Library Journal).
In this volume, behavior analyst and educator Jill Mullin has assembled a staggering array of work from established artists with autism like Gregory Blackstock and Jessica Park—as well as many who are unknown but no less talented. Their creations, coupled with artist interviews, comprise a fascinating and compelling book that serves to educate and inspire anyone who knows someone diagnosed with ASD. Mullin’s introduction and the foreword by bestselling author Temple Grandin also provide an overview of autism, and advocate for nurturing the talents, artistic and otherwise, of autistic individuals.
“What is the actual experience of living with autism in a deep-felt sense, beyond the social stereotypes and headline-worthy superskills? Drawing Autism, a celebration of the artistry and self-expression found in artwork by people diagnosed with autism, explores just that. The stunning volume features works by more than fifty international contributors, from children to established artists, that illustrate the rich multiplicity of the condition.” —The Atlantic
“Mullin . . . brings together fascinating works by 40 artists on the spectrum with their answers to her questions about their process.” —The Boston Globe
“A testament to the power of art to reveal the inner world of people living with ASD.” —Publishers Weekly
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Behavior analyst and educator Mullin compiled this stunning volume of work from over 40 artists living with autism after working with an ASD (autism spectrum disorder) artist and becoming intrigued by his weekly drawings. The work featured here has been skillfully arranged to mirror the commonalities of the disease; for example, in the chapter "Repetition, Repetition, Repetition." Some of the best pieces appear child-like in their simplicity, but reminiscent of masters such as Klee and Picasso in their emotional heft, as in "The Man on a White Horse" by Kevin Hosseini. Mullin interviews the contributors (including established artists Gregory Blackstock and Jessica Park) about their process and reasons for painting or drawing. Noah Erenberg uses words as his subject matter and creates designs in bold typeface and different colors, which remind him of hip-hop music. Eric Chen's paintings feature words formed into figures and objects as a way to "convey the inner feelings I feel as a person with autism." In her foreword, Temple Grandin explains how visual processing works for people with ASD and discusses her experience learning to draw livestock handling facilities. This book is a testament to the power of art to reveal the inner world of people living with ASD. Full-color illus. throughout.
