We have seen how people with Autism Spectrum Disorders can help support worthy causes via their art, for example awareness of the animals they paint and even awareness for Autism. Grant, a 16-year-old with Asperger’s Syndrome, is already an author, artist, and speaker. He creates art in an environmentally responsible way…
…I paint by paper…I recycle and create collage art using magazines, calendars, wallpaper, envelopes, posters, kleenex boxes, food wrappers, puzzles, and more. Each work of art contains 1000 to 6000 cut or torn pieces of recycled paper. I use cool colors, cool shapes, and cool textures.. I call my art “COOLAGES”
Let’s all become environmentally responsible by protecting and saving our earth together in a “coolage” way.
Grant’s artwork came about after his mother saw her son’s intense need to tear and separate paper - she helped him to focus and channel this need…
…Grant’s unique form of art often takes months to complete and some of his works are made out of thousands of pieces of paper. Last year he sold one of his creations for $6,000!
Last week Grant won the Houston Mayor’s Choice Award - 2011 Disabilities Youth Advocate of the Year. Not only does Grant create beautiful art pieces, but he teaches children about his craft. “Grant is an amazing person,” his mom Julie says, “His autism allows him to focus on tiny details and be patient with the process. I’m so proud of him. He has overcome many challenges, and is now an inspiration to many.”
More of Grant’s ecofriendly artwork can be viewed via the following links:Grant’s Eco-Art - Grant’s Gallery and Prices Heart of Texas Autism Network Mardi Gras Artists
As an advocate for Autism in the Houston, Texas area, Grant lives by his motto:
(sources: Grant’s Eco-Art - Home Page ; 16 year old Grant Manier wins Houston’s Mayor Choice Award - Santa Barbara Autistic Art | Examiner.com ; Mayor's Disability Advocate of the Year Awards )