Art, Autism, and Visibility
See how these artists with autism navigate the art community and how their art influences the call for inclusivity.
Words Randolf Maala-Resueño
Photos courtesy of Sevi Agregado
April 3, 2025
Harnessing the universality of art for expression and inclusivity, individuals with autism are often at the forefront of Filipino prodigies, contributing significantly to the country’s artistic diversity.
In commemoration of Autism Awareness Month, we celebrate how artistic expression and appreciation support the recognition of autism identities, highlighting art created by individuals on the neurodivergent spectrum and exploring how their craft inspires others.
Sevi Agregado (@sevilovesart)
Diagnosed at 2 years old, Sevi discovered his passion for visual arts during his therapy sessions. Now a 12-year-old artist, his heartfelt paintings—depicting life in bold colors—are a testament to his journey. With the guidance of his mother, April, Sevi’s artwork continues to support his ongoing therapy. Follow his growing social media presence!
Vico Cham (@vicosartismgallery)
Vico is an award-winning painter and graphic artist. Growing up with architect parents, he was no stranger to the hustle of art in the household, using blueprints as his first canvas. His artwork features surrealist human figures, such as Cleopatra, across various mediums, including shirts, canvas, and handbags.
Lorenzo Medina (@lorenzosanctuary)
The 23-year-old painter grew up largely non-verbal, using his childhood hobby of painting bayongs as a way to communicate. Now, with his canvas and the guidance of his parents, Enzo participates in several art exhibitions, showcasing his love for nature through his subjects. Lovingly dubbed the 'Chief Inspiration Officer,' Enzo’s family runs a farm in Calamba, Laguna, where their love for the environment continues to flourish.
J.A. Tan (@artofjatan)
J.A. is a Vancouver-based Filipino-Canadian artist with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Emily Carr University of Art and Design. His work has been featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions around the world, with past shows in Vancouver, California, New York, Miami, London, Beijing, and Manila.
Tan’s work is widely recognized: one of his pieces was commissioned by the United Nations for one of its stamps, New York Fashion Week designers have collaborated with him to create wearable art, and multiple offices and residences worldwide have commissioned his artworks for their spaces.
Laurence Anthony De Guzman (@laurenceanthony.music)
Laurence Anthony De Guzman, a music prodigy, was diagnosed with high-functioning autism and a speech delay at the age of two. However, through the universal language of music, Laurence overcame his challenges by performing at school and communicating through music by the age of nine.
With continuous ear training from his father, he developed perfect pitch and has since earned widespread acclaim in the UAE, alongside his sister, Charlene. Their mother, Mylene, remains steadfast in their advocacy for autism awareness, encouraging parents to focus on their children's strengths and talents rather than their disabilities.
Art and autism awareness
As we continue to develop societal norms, inclusivity in all aspects remains a challenge. Nonetheless, art and its influence can serve as a stepping stone for promoting talent and creativity in the conversation. These awe-inspiring individuals are a testament to the call for safer spaces in the artistic community, as they express art through their most authentic selves, where disabilities are simply another set of unique abilities.
Disclaimer: This piece explores the connection between art and autism, featuring individuals, including minors, whose guardians have given full consent for their inclusion.
