As an autistic artist, I have found that one of the most effective ways to communicate my experiences is through visual art. I often have trouble describing what I’m feeling in words, or worse, I gaslight myself into doubting any feelings I have are real at all. But I can paint what it feels like, and that painting can evoke emotions in other people. I have painted several self-portraits depicting autistic traits, each piece representing a different aspect of my neurodivergent experience.

Autistic overwhelm and dysregulation can hit you like a ton of bricks. It just shuts down all ability to think and cope with anything. I’ve often described it like being hit in the face repeatedly with a foam bat, it’s not going to send you to the hospital, but it’s not leaving room for much else to happen, and it’s quickly rage inducing! From what I understand this is not a unique experience in my community. For many people with autism, the world can be very overwhelming. Everyday experiences such as loud noises, bright lights, and social interactions can be draining AF and difficult to navigate. As a result, autistics develop coping mechanisms to manage our traits, such as stimming, sensory diets, and social scripts. However, another valuable tool that can help manage autistic traits is art. You can ask my spouse, when I’m done with life, all I need is a weighted blanket and my art tablet.