Abstract artist Mahlia Amatina has announced her newest exhibit inspired by her arts-led advocacy work for neurodiversity. Funded by Arts Council England, ‘Life on a Spectrum’ is an interactive exhibit that uses visual art, writing, videography and performance art to involve viewers both onsite and online. Visitors play an active role in the creative process and are encouraged to interact with exhibit elements, by generating their own art with pre-cut magnetic shapes and leaving responses to questions related to autism-specific traits.
Named among the ‘Top 50 Influential Neurodivergent Women’ by Women Beyond the Box 2019 and well-known for her thought-provoking art, Mahlia has once again pushed the boundaries by creating an exciting experience that delivers positive messages in an impactful yet accessible way. Elements of the exhibit include visual art, interactive exploration, performance art and written text. The collection will be displayed at three venues where Mahlia will deliver ‘artist talks’ with neurodiverse community groups and leave worksheets with additional information, to consider and take away for prolonged engagement.
Since being diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome as an adult in 2015, Mahlia has found tremendous satisfaction in gaining an understanding of her neurological uniqueness. She celebrates this attribute by becoming an artist committed to raising awareness around neurodiversity.
Her previous exhibition, ‘Around the World in 80 Washing Lines,’ won ‘Best Education Project’ at Reading’s Cultural Awards for the multi-sensory, Autism-friendly nature of the installation. Other Autism-awareness raising exhibits have included ‘An Exploration of Asperger’s Syndrome’ and ‘Autismo 25.’ Both collections garnered acclaim in fine art venues and community settings, and her work prompted positive mention by Professor Baron-Cohen, a world-renowned autism expert.
Life on a Spectrum will be featured at the following venues:
§South Hill Park (Bracknell): 23rd Nov 2019 – 12th Jan 2020
§Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre (Walton-on-Thames): 25th Mar – 14th Apr 2020
§Allen Gallery (Alton): 2nd – 30th May 2020
Three examples of Mahlia’s art from her ‘NYC14’ series
Contact Person: Mahlia Amatina
Phone Number: 07725 366966
Email Address: mahliaamatina@gmail.com
Website: https://www.mahliaamatina.com
