Art in Autism–Learning Autism

October 15, 2016January 16, 2021 Guest Submitted Post

While pondering my next question for learning autism, my brain slipped over to the artistic side. It made me wonder, does anyone use art in teaching autism or even in calming an autistic child? Are there autistic children who have a fascination with art?

Art has always been a soothing mental escape for me. It awakens my longing to create and explore possibilities. It boosts my courage when I can achieve satisfactory results. Art for me is an emotional balm. Color, texture, tones, imagination, fantasy, shapes, smells……they’re all a part of it.

Two of my favorite stores are Michael’s and Hobby Lobby. Aside from that, I’d have to say Books-a-Million would be next in line. I can get lost in the possibilities and the books, the bits and pieces, the vast choices to entertain the mind. For me, entering one of these places is like taking a deprived child to a toy store! I just can’t get enough, and it’s hard to believe there are so many wonderful things in one building.

I’ve never been one to dwell on the history of art and artists. I do respect what was offered and discovered in the past, but there’s a whole new path out there to discover. Admiring other people’s works is another joy for me. In this case, beauty is definitely in the eye of the beholder. I used to think abstracts were ugly and useless. (I know, don’t hate me abstract lovers.) But I’ve come to admire even those unique works.

As I’ve evolved over the years, so has my appreciation for what is called art. I no longer have a narrow view and expect the beauty in it to be perfect. In fact, the imperfections are often what make the most interesting pieces.

This is my latest glass etching. It would be an honor if any of you who have art loving autistic children would share with us the favored pieces of your child’s works.