New exhibition celebrates people’s creativity

Thursday 11th of November 2021

Neurodiversity has produced some incredible art throughout history, and plays a big part in the lives of many people Avenues supports. To celebrate their achievements, a selection of their work is now being showcased in a new public exhibition, which opened this week …

“I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way… things I had no words for.”

Georgia O’Keeffe

“As well as being great fun, art is a form of meditation,” explains Sacha-Feeney-Howells, who is a project coordinator with Avenues, “When people become absorbed in creativity, there’s a therapeutic effect, as their minds relax. This can bring massive benefits, particularly for people on the autistic spectrum. We run our schemes so people can get into art, make friends and generally improve their wellbeing – and as the exhibition shows, produce some amazing work.”

The exhibition at Jerwood DanceHouse runs throughout November, and is a product of the activities coordinated by Sacha and the wider Avenues Community Support Services (CSS) in Suffolk.

It showcases the work of people age 16+, who have drawn inspiration from famous artists including Klimt, Kandinsky and Van Gogh, as well as exploring their own personal ideas and creativity.

The CSS team supports people with disabilities, autism, and complex health needs to take part in daytime and evening activities, social groups and enjoy short breaks and days out. It also offers outreach support.

“It’s just wonderful to see all these amazing pieces of art hanging in a gallery space. The young people will be able to proudly bring their friends and families to see it all. We’re really proud of them all too.”

People enjoying the exhibition Sacha and Vicky from Avenues