Exhibition to create autism awareness

FIRST Thursdays, an evening of free viewing for gallery lovers and aesthetes, is slowly making its way back, with Autism Western Cape (AWC) to exhibit works to create awareness around autism spectrum disorders and to promote visibility. AWC will host an exhibition titled

Artists on a Spectrum, now in its third year, this evening at Gallery 44 on Long Street.

Covering themes around inclusivity and lived experiences, about five artists diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are set to exhibit their work.

Autism spectrum disorders impact the nervous system and impair the ability to communicate and interact with others, with severity in symptoms varying.

“AWC director Mduduzi Dube said the theme is the artists’ experiences and how they see the world.

“Artists on a Spectrum is to showcase what individuals diagnosed with autism can do, because people sometimes see people with disabilities, developmental or intellectual, as individuals that cannot participate in society as well as contribute. But we want to show that when we give them the opportunity and we provide reasonable accommodation, they are able to exceed expectations,” said Dube.

The non-profit organisation, based in Cape Town, aims to promote awareness and create a more inclusive society for people with autism, through advocacy, education and empowering families and individuals affected.

Dube said the evening would also allow others to find out more about the work done by AWC and how they can become involved and support it.

“We want to not make this just a First Thursday thing. We want to make this a full-on project, where they are able to supply galleries with their art or we find our own space where people can buy and they can sustain their own livelihoods by their own competencies like everyone else.”

AWC volunteer Thulani Dube said: “It’s to bring awareness to the plight of people diagnosed with autism and what we’ve done.”

Poetry and musical performances and a paint-a-thon will also take place.

About 53 unique pieces will be exhibited from 5pm.

Due to Covid-19 protocols, the event is by invitation only. Those interested can email Admin@awc.org. za or call 021 462 8232 to register for the event.