Autumn Cox, the Autism Society of Virginia, and ART 180 present:
love through the eyes of children with autism spectrum disorder
April is recognized as Autism Awareness Month across the country, and ART 180 is happy to be part of bringing the unique creative expression of young people with autism to the public through an exhibition at Atlas, our new art center for teens. love through the eyes of children with autism spectrum disorder collects visual interpretations of love created by young people whose lives are shaped by their daily experiences with autism. The artwork will be on display to the public April 22-May 31, 2013 at Atlas (114 W. Marshall St. in the downtown Arts District). ART 180 will host an opening reception on May 3 from 6-9 p.m., as part of the First Fridays Art Walk.
This exhibit is a collaboration between the Autism Society of Virginia, ART 180 and Autumn Cox, a Richmond Girl Scout who organized the project for her Gold Award, which represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting.
“My Girl Scout Gold Award project has provided a great avenue in which to make this dream a reality. I hope to create a lasting impression on the Richmond art community, spread awareness of the unique perspective children on the autism spectrum can provide, and showcase the exceptional talent these extraordinary children have to offer.”
-Autumn Cox
Sandi Wiley of the Autism Society of Virginia played an instrumental role in developing the show, which features the works of school-age artists from around the Richmond region. Members of ART 180’s teen leadership group, in collaboration with Richmond artist Matt Lively, led the installation of the show.
The initial viewing of love through the eyes of children with autism spectrum disorder is a private event, however both Sandi Wiley and Autumn Cox will be present at the First Fridays opening on May 3.
ABOUT ART 180
ART 180 gives young people in challenging circumstances the chance to express themselves through art, and to share their stories with others. Atlas, a project of ART 180, is an exhibition and performance space in the downtown arts district that also offers a variety of art-based programs for teens, focusing on personal and community change through creative expression and civic engagement.
