The Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism at Utah Valley University will celebrate its fourth annual Super Spectrum Showcase and Soiree art show this month. The art show gives artists on the autism spectrum the unique opportunity of sharing their art in a public gallery for their friends, family, and community to enjoy.

Each year, the autism center calls for artists of all ages to submit their art in any medium. Over the past three years, the art show has brought dozens of artists together who have collectively submitted hundreds of art pieces. Submissions over the years have included paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry, and more. Once the art is collected, it is organized for display and is showcased at the Cole Nellesen Building on UVU’s Orem Campus for a few months before the pieces are returned to the artists.

"The art show is a very important event for the community because it brings so many people together. However, with the social restrictions implemented due to COVID-19, this year's art show will be held in a digital format," said Laurie Bowen, associate director of the Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism. "There are a lot of artists that are very excited to have this place to showcase their art because they may not have shared it otherwise."

One of the younger artists featured in this year's show is Benjamin Navas, age 5. Benjamin was diagnosed with autism just before he turned 2.

"He loves drawing. He started drawing when he was around 20 months old," said Jorge Navas, Benjamin's dad. "He started drawing fishes and an octopus with chalk on the floor. Later he discovered a whiteboard and markers, and it has since become his favorite. He loves animals and dinosaurs, and he knows every animal's name. We think he loves art because he is very fascinated about animals and little details. [Art] is the way he shares his fascination with animals; he always wants to let us know what animal is in his mind through his drawing." 

Benjamin’s parents said they are very proud of his art. “We think it is the most important tool to communicate with Benji, and also helps to improve other skills. Through drawings, we and other people are able to teach him.”

Individuals with autism have a range of abilities, and an autism diagnosis varies from person to person. For many individuals with autism, communicating thoughts or feelings can be challenging, but art is a medium that allows them to communicate in another way.

"Artistic expression is important for everyone. Everyone needs to find some kind of a creative outlet. But it's also a great opportunity to share feelings, to share ideas, to show strengths, to present a worldview that might be different, and to just share your talents with the community," said Jane Carlson, director of the Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism. 

Those interested in viewing this year's art show can access the galleries here.

For more information about the Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism and autism resources, please visit uvu.edu/autism.

 

About the Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism  

The Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism at Utah Valley University improves the quality of life for those living and working with autism spectrum disorder by preparing students for professional careers in the field, providing evidence-based services and education, and fostering a community of belonging. The Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism's doors opened in May 2017.