Autism Light #162 is Joshua Banks.
Joshua Banks has been described as, "A 24-year old young man with autism who enjoys music, gymnastics, hiking and horseback riding but doesn't speak, he discovered this art form when his mom packed some markers to channel his abundant energy during evacuation from a hurricane (Source)." Joshua is nonverbal and is working on using an iPod Touch to aid his communication with others. He also uses gestures and some vocalizations.
His parents wrote that, "It always seems that art provides Josh a focal point to his day and to his physical space, it's a visible expression of his joyful personality. His parents prefer that he be recognized for his abilities, which include a joyful means of expressing himself and transcending multiple challenges."
Joshua was first encouraged to prepare for an exhibit by Texas art professor and international fine artist Mari Omori; several other artists have since admired the quality of his work. Joshua uses markers to create his artwork. Here is a photo of one of his pieces.
Joshua's Art Show:
- Joshua has his work featured at an art show at the Lighthouse Art Center in Tequesta, Florida from June 4, 2012 through July 26, 2012. There will be a reception on June 21 from 5:30 to 7:00pm.
- Joshua's first public art show was held at the Town of Jupiter Community Center in Florida. It was an inclusive art show featuring other artists as well. There was an opening reception from 6 to 8pm on Friday, March 23, 2012 and the art was displayed through April 27, 2012.
Special thanks to Joshua Banks and his parents for showing us a wonderful example of someone with autism expressing themselves through art. Joshua's talent shows the autism community that art is a positive way for someone with autism to express their joy. We expect to hear great things about Joshua Banks' art in the future.
Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.
Photo: The photos in this post were used with permission of Vicki Silver.
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