Perth artist Jenny Davies has embarked on a year-long Arts for Autism project, focusing on the faces and stories of Curtin University's neurodivergent community. Over the next 12 months, Ms Davies will welcome 50 individuals into her Floreat studio as part of the initiative, in partnership with the Autism Association of WA.
Capturing Essence and Diversity
“What I’m trying to capture is the essence of the person, and to draw attention to how diverse people are in our community,” Ms Davies said. The project will include subjects ranging from people living with autism to carers, families, and advocates. “I see the face as a bit of a landscape. It’s telling a story of where you’ve been through life and what hardships you’ve had. So far I’ve only painted three people, but it’s really become a highlight of my day whenever I get to do it.”
Overwhelming Community Response
The project has received more than 40 applications, a response Ms Davies described as overwhelming. “It’s been much more embraced than I thought it would be, and I’ve had so many positive comments. The stories that have been coming through have just been so emotional, and I want to put them all in. I’m just overwhelmed by how many people want to be involved. So it’s amazing.”
Accommodating Neurodivergent Subjects
Ms Davies recognises the challenges for people on the spectrum who must sit for two to three hours for a portrait. “Neurodivergency comes in all sorts of different shapes and forms, and I’m very aware of that. So I want people to feel very comfortable. I can paint them with headphones or give them a screen to watch while they sit there, and I’ve got fidget spinners and other sensory toys. If they don’t want to chat that’s fine, and we take breaks and have a bit of a stretch as well.”
Political Support and Advocacy
Curtin MP Kate Chaney, a vocal advocate for autism awareness, is among the subjects. Ms Chaney recently spoke in parliament about the need for greater support for families navigating autism and raised concerns about the Government’s plan to move children with autism off the National Disability Insurance Scheme before replacement programs were ready. “I’ve spoken to many carers about their experience of the NDIS and their despair,” Ms Chaney said. “Too often, it seems we’re taking the human out of human services. Supports are siloed and impersonal. We must put people at the centre of the NDIS so Australians with disability and the families who carry so much are finally seen, heard and supported.”
Exhibition and Community Impact
Ms Davies hopes the project will bring the community together and preserve stories meaningfully. The project will conclude next April with an exhibition of the 50 portraits at the Autism Association of WA’s offices in Shenton Park. All proceeds from portrait sales will go to the association. Autism Association of WA CEO Joan McKenna Kerr said, “Through this project, Jenny has created a space for real, local stories to be shared – giving the autistic community a safe platform to express who they are and share the experiences and stories that shape their life. We are honoured to be involved in this project and to shine a light on the strength, compassion and connection of our community so everyone feels supported and heard.”
Nominations are still open. For more information on the project and how to get involved, visit the Arts for Autism website.
