his April, The Community Artists’ Collective proudly presents "Out of the Blue", an evocative art exhibition that intertwines creativity with advocacy, opening on Saturday, April 5, at 5 p.m. The showcase features the compelling works of Janice Warren and Joseph Dixon, two artists whose personal experiences navigating the world of autism have profoundly shaped their artistic journeys.

Art as a Voice for Autism Awareness

Coinciding with National Autism Awareness Month, the exhibition runs through May 24, providing an immersive platform for dialogue and education surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Janice Warren unveils a deeply personal collection of abstract and mixed-media works that encapsulate the emotional, physical, and psychological resilience required to raise and advocate for children with autism and other developmental challenges. Her art delves into the complexities of familial bonds, capturing both the triumphs and tribulations of this unique journey.

Meanwhile, Joseph Dixon presents selections from his renowned Faces of Autism series—an ongoing body of work in pencil and acrylic, portraying the vivid personalities and passions of children with special needs. Dixon, who has worked closely with students with disabilities since 2008, aims to foster greater understanding and appreciation for individuals living with autism and related conditions.

Engaging the Community Through Art and Dialogue

"Out of the Blue" is more than just an art exhibit—it is a community-driven initiative designed to enhance public awareness and inclusivity. To deepen engagement, the Collective will host several workshops and discussions:

• April 12 | Film Screening & Artist Talk – Moderated by artist Akua Fayette, this session includes a thought-provoking documentary screening followed by an insightful discussion on autism representation in art.
• May 3 | Art on the Spectrum Workshop (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.) – A hands-on creative experience led by Warren and Dixon, exploring the intersection of neurodiversity and artistic expression.
• May 17 | Inclusion in the Classroom (2 p.m. – 4 p.m.) – An invitation-only professional development workshop, equipping educators with strategies to create inclusive learning environments for neurodiverse students.

Experience the Exhibition

Visitors can explore "Out of the Blue" at The Community Artists’ Collective from Thursday through Saturday, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., or by appointment.

For more details, call 713-523-1616 or visit www.thecollective.org