Drawing Autism

January 27, 2014
Behavior analyst and educator Mullin compiled this stunning volume of work from over 40 artists living with autism after working with an ASD (autism spectrum disorder) artist and becoming intrigued by his weekly drawings. The work featured here has been skillfully arranged to mirror the commonalities of the disease; for example, in the chapter “Repetition, Repetition, Repetition.” Some of the best pieces appear child-like in their simplicity, but reminiscent of masters such as Klee and Picasso in their emotional heft, as in “The Man on a White Horse” by Kevin Hosseini. Mullin interviews the contributors (including established artists Gregory Blackstock and Jessica Park) about their process and reasons for painting or drawing. Noah Erenberg uses words as his subject matter and creates designs in bold typeface and different colors, which remind him of hip-hop music. Eric Chen’s paintings feature words formed into figures and objects as a way to “convey the inner feelings I feel as a person with autism.” In her foreword, Temple Grandin explains how visual processing works for people with ASD and discusses her experience learning to draw livestock handling facilities. This book is a testament to the power of art to reveal the inner world of people living with ASD. Full-color illus. throughout.

April 15, 2014
Editor Mullin, a behavior analyst who has been working with individuals with autism since 2000, assembles an astonishing collection of art created by more than 40 international artists along the autism spectrum. The works, coupled with interviews with the creators themselves, foster understanding and acceptance and downright awe at the sheer talent of these remarkable individuals. The book's chapter organization--"Interaction, Individual and Societal"; "Repetition, Repetition, Repetition"; "Getting from Here to There"; "Bird's Eye View"; "Another World"; "It's All History"; "Art for Art's Sake"--showcase seven common characteristics of people on the spectrum. Temple Grandin, a renowned author, autism advocate, engineer, and livestock behavior consultant, provides the foreword for this jaw-droppingly beautiful book. VERDICT Appealing in its variety of styles and media, this book is a valuable addition to any public library, as well as educational institutions offering programs in art, art therapy, or special education.--Virginia Johnson, Weymouth P.L., MA

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