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Art, Meaning and Diagnosis: a celebration of neurodivergent creativity

Members of our Neurodevelopmental team are hosting Art, Meaning and Diagnosis, an exhibition showcasing the creative talents of neurodivergent artists. This exhibit will be running from 8–12 April across two locations: 

• The Platform Gallery, Kingston School of Art at Knights Park, Grange Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT1 2QJ
• The Stanley Picker Gallery, Middle Hill, Portland Road, KT1 2SG 

During autism and ADHD assessments, the team noticed that many individuals shared artwork or creative projects as a way of expressing their thoughts and experiences. This inspired the idea of an exhibition — one that highlights how art can communicate what words often cannot. 

Fifteen artists will be featured in the exhibition, 14 of whom are known to Neurodevelopment service, alongside a gallery assistant from the exhibition space. Their work offers an intimate look into the way these neurodivergent individuals see, feel, and interact with the world, helping others gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity.  

Please see below some examples of the amazing art work that will be on display: 

Kai’s work is driven by his lifelong use of imagination as a coping tool.  

"My art makes me feel powerful... I can create a world, and I can create how I feel. I’m proud of being who I am as an autistic person. Being autistic means I can’t live inside the box. So I live outside the box. I’m not a sheep… I’m a lion." 

Ewa’s display of her self-portrait at a previous exhibition led her to reflect on her experience as a newly-diagnosed autistic person.

Ewa observed that when thinking about her Autism diagnosis, it struck her that the different interpretations of her self-portrait highlighted the ways her interpretation of expression may differ from others. For her this is the essence of her experience of Autism, “when the way the outer world sees me and the way I see myself are often two different things.”

Mary became interested in Falcons and after her diagnosis she recontextualised this; “I felt that I was painting my own experience during the day, and when I’m out in the world. Masking and feeling overwhelmed.”

Bethany, a graphic design graduate, created the exhibition artwork, visually capturing the journey around a neurodivergent diagnosis. 

In the lead up to the exhibition, Jo Dunn, principal psychologist shares, “This exhibition is a celebration of individuality and the power of creative expression. Each piece tells a unique story, offering insight into the diverse ways neurodivergent individuals experience the world. We hope it encourages conversations, understanding, and appreciation for the different ways people see and communicate.” 

The team welcome everyone to the exhibit to support these fantastic artists.

If you would like any more information, please contact Freya.Reynolds@yourhealthcare.org