Art as vocation: Creative opportunities in adulthood for people with autism
This session will consider the value of art programmes for the happiness and wellbeing of adults with autism and share insights from a dedicated centre for art in adulthood. Often opportunities for art and creativity end when a person with autism leaves education. Here practitioners and service users together consider the significance of art as a lifelong vocation, indeed as a professional occupation for those that attend the service. The workshop will explore ways of harnessing special interests and continuity of form as the basis of opportunities for creativity and imagination.
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Claire RitchieClaire Ritchie is Senior Autism Practitioner at Scottish Autism, Scotland’s largest provider of services for people with autism and their families. Claire currently manages the organisation’s Art Opportunities service, a day resource providing creative projects for adults on the spectrum in Alloa, Central Scotland. Claire has worked in Scottish Autism’s Services for 13 years and has supported individuals within supported living, outreach services and day resources. Claire has a Diploma in Public Art and uses knowledge and skills learned to support individuals to explore a variety of techniques.
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Christopher MarleyChristopher Marley is an artist at Art Opportunities specialising in a range of art techniques including glasswork. Christopher has been supported by Scottish Autism for 22 years within our Adult Services. Christopher accesses Art Opportunities four days a week and is supported in the evening in his own home. Christopher is an experienced spokesperson for the experiences of autistic people within the organisation and has made important contributions in staff training and service user forums.
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