BANNADA KATHE - THE ART EXHIBITION
The GAC 2026 Art Exhibition is envisioned as a reflective and inclusive creative space that centers autistic voices, neurodivergent perspectives, and community narratives from the Global South. The exhibition invites art not only as a display, but also as a dialogue between lived experience, culture, and care. The exhibition prioritizes authenticity and inclusion over technical perfection or artistic training.
Open to all, including children, adolescents, students, artists, designers, healthcare workers, educators, neurodivergent individuals, and community members from any background, age, or experience.
- Paintings, drawings, and illustrations
- Mixed-media and tactile art
- Photography and digital art
- Sculptural or three-dimensional works (table-top scale preferred)
- Process-based or narrative art that tells a story
Works should resonate with the GAC 2026 theme: “Autism in the Global South: Culture, Community, and Neurodiversity” either directly or through personal, cultural, or sensory interpretations related to autism and neurodiversity.
- Artists will first share images of their artwork along with a short reflection or note (up to 200 words).
- This note may describe the idea, process, or personal meaning behind the work.
- Submissions by minors must be accompanied by consent from a parent/legal guardian.
- If AI tools are used in the creation of the artwork, this must be declared.
- A designated Art Review Panel (including clinicians, educators, and community representatives) will review submissions to ensure thematic alignment and respectful representation.
- Selected artists will receive a confirmation with simple next steps.
The review process is intended to be supportive, not competitive.
- Artworks will be displayed with artist names and brief descriptions.
- Artists may also choose to remain anonymous or use a pseudonym.
- Artists may choose whether or not to include a written narrative alongside their work.
- Large-scale installations and works requiring power, sound, or moving parts may not be accommodated.
- Artworks must be safe for public display (no sharp edges, hazardous materials, or perishable items).
- Artists may choose to display their work for viewing only or make it available for sale.
- Pricing, if applicable, will be decided solely by the artist or caregiver.
- All sales will be handled directly between artists and interested delegates.
- GAC 2026 will not take any commission.
- Visibility beyond diagnosis
- Storytelling through form and color
- Celebrating creativity as communication
- Honoring diverse ways of being, sensing, and expressing
- Selected artists will receive a certificate of participation
- Selected works may be featured in the GAC 2026 digital archive or souvenir, with consent.
Ms. Nagapornima M
nagapoornima.m@stjohns.inMs. Jolene Ann Rodrigues
joleneannrod@gmail.com