Koegel Autism Center Holds Neurodivergent Art Show

The Koegel Autism Center’s Creative Club will be holding its sixth neurodivergent art show, by and for those who think differently. Titled “Unmasking Through Art,” the event will be on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 8 pm at the Koegel Autism Center on the UC Santa Barbara campus. This event is free and open to the public.

The “Unmasking Through Art” art show hopes to highlight the hidden potential of neurodivergent individuals and minimize the negative stigma surrounding them. Neurodivergent artists and members of our greater Santa Barbara community who identify with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, epilepsy, hyperlexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, OCD, Tourette syndrome, and more are invited to showcase their art.

According to Anna Krasno, Ph.D., clinical director of the Koegel Autism Center, neurodivergent people, tend to mask their true selves to fit in with societal norms. “This art show provides a safe and affirming space for artists to show their authentic selves,” she said.

All age groups and skill sets are welcome, and the topic behind works submitted does not need to be related to the subject of neurodiversity. Artists, musicians, and performers working with all forms of art– including painting, writing, drawing, spoken word, sculpture, music, digital work, photography, video, and more – are encouraged to participate in the art show. Artists will have the opportunity to place their works for sale, with 100% of the proceeds going to the artist.

We are actively seeking artist submissions. If you are an artist or performer who would like to participate in the show, please complete the registration here:

https://bit.ly/3EkOCvV

Please email autism@ucsb.edu with any questions.

The Koegel Autism Center, at the UCSB Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, is internationally recognized for its innovative autism research and clinical training. The center focuses on the development and implementation of strength-based, motivational support services, interventions, and psychological evaluations for individuals with autism and their families.

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Art credit: Natalie Poire

CONTACT: Maria Zate, Director of Communications, mzate@ucsb.edu