Autistic Teenagers Reveal Their Inner Selves at an Art Exhibition

An art exhibition featuring works by 14 autistic teenagers is on display at the Being Art Museum Pudong. The exhibition, titled "The World In My Eyes," is collaboratively presented by Delixi Group Co Ltd and the autism intervention organization Dami & Xiaomi.

The Shanghai leg of the touring exhibition received 109 artworks by 14 artists, with 80 works on display in acrylic, watercolor and ink. Autistic teens from Shenzhen, Chengdu, Beijing, Weifang and Nanning submitted their artworks. Jungao, 20, is the oldest artist, while Zirui, 9, is the youngest.

The artworks include ordinary scenes, landscapes, flowers, birds and vividly imagined surreal imagery. They reflect the teens' vibrant inner lives.

Proceeds from artwork sales will go directly to the artists to help improve their lives. Notably, the artwork used for this exhibition's poster has already been sold.

The exhibition's first 49 paintings sold out in five days at Eye of Shenzhen.

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition primarily characterized by challenges in social communication and repetitive behaviors. Some individuals, due to unique cognitive patterns, demonstrate extraordinary abilities, particularly in areas such as memory, mathematics and the arts.

Delixi Group executive vice president Hu Yuqing said that creating a safe and respectful environment for autistic children, where they feel comfortable and confident and can grow freely, is a family and social responsibility. Children show society their imagination, sensitivity and artistic talent through painting. The exhibition and artworks help the public connect with them, dispelling prejudice and fostering empathy.

After the Spring Festival, the exhibition will visit Taishan Renmin Fang and Pudong Library in Yichuan Road Sub-district, Putuo District.

Since 1984, Delixi Group has donated over 200 million yuan (US$28.72 million) to poverty relief, education, disaster relief and biodiversity protection.

Founded in September 2014, Dami & Xiaomi serves as a comprehensive resource for child development and ability enhancement. It has provided professional evaluations and targeted training to over 30,000 neurodiverse children, including those with autism, language disorders and learning disabilities.

Dates: January 16-February 9

Venue: 2/F, Being Art Museum

浦东碧云美术馆2楼

Address: 135 Hongfeng Rd

红枫路135号