Life On A Spectrum
An Interactive and Participatory Art Exhibition About Neurodiversity
Inspired by my arts-led advocacy work on neurodiversity, ‘Life on a Spectrum’ is an interactive exhibit that uses visual art, writing, videography and performance art to involve viewers both onsite and online. The work builds on previous autism-related exhibitions ‘On a Spectrum – an exploration of Asperger’s syndrome’, ‘Around the World in 80 Washing Lines’, as well as an arts-based project on ‘Women and Autism’ created in New York City.
Visitors played an active role in the creative process at ‘Life on a Spectrum’. They were encouraged to interact with exhibited elements, to generate their own art using pre-cut magnetic shapes, and leaving responses to questions related to autism-specific traits. The exhibition grew organically over time, as more reactions were collated and the narrative on neurodiversity continued to grow within the space.
The aim of the exhibition was to "capture the imagination of people from all backgrounds to learn about, and celebrate, neurodiversity”.
The exhibition was funded by Arts Council England (ACE) and was shown both online and at South Hill Park (Bracknell).
Image: South Hill Park, Bracknell. Courtesy of Creative Commercial Photography
Four videos were created where I sat with a different trigger situation for 30 minutes. Triggers included a ticking clock, multi-tasking, overlapping sounds and flashing lights. You can view them all here.
During the pandemic, Free Space Project, exhibited 'Life on a Spectrum', as an immersive online show. Watch a walkthrough video of this work above and see more here