This video, which was shown at the 2014 AANE Annual Gala, highlighted the skills and stories of members of AANE's then blossoming Artist Collaborative. The Artist Collaborative consists of adult artists with Autism Spectrum and related profiles, whose art provides a unique lens through which to see the world. Rebbie Ratner, a filmmaker with an interest in Autism visited AANE with a full crew and a lot of curiosity visited AANE. During Rebbie's filming, the Collaborative was participating in Watertown Open Studios. Artists displayed their work and gave live demonstrations of their artistic processes. The video conveys the meaning and role that art played in the lives of the artists and the support that the Artist Collaborative, and AANE as a whole, has given them.
A scene from our very first show in 2007
OUR MEMBERS WORK IN NEARLY EVERY ARTISTIC MEDIUM - Visual Arts, Writing, Crafts of all kinds, Fashion and Needlecraft, Music, Film, Animation and more.
Interested in joining?
Send an email to:
artistcollaborative@aane.org
(Artists must be over age 18 and identify as being on the Autism Spectrum.)
Our History
As early as 2003, and continuing at its annual Fall conferences, AANE showcased the work of the many artists with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome in its community. In 2007 it held its first Official Art Show. Shortly thereafter, AANE staff, parents and other advocates for the artists began to develop the idea of an Artist Collaborative, envisioning and then implementing a way its artists could show and sell their work on a regular basis throughout the year.
Soon the new Artist Collaborative was meeting regularly, with staff and advocates fulfilling the role of Agents. Several shows and exhibitions followed and work got underway for a Gallery space at AANE Main Offices in Watertown, MA. The Gallery opened 2013 with much fanfare and acclaim. Over time, as the artists gained confidence and show experience they themselves took on more and responsibility for the group and its activities.
The Artists Collaborative Group, its events, Gallery and Website are now run entirely by the artists themselves. There are currently over 100 members, living in nearly every state and a few who live in other countries.
We meet VIRTUALLY on the third Monday of each month.
We plan art shows, share our latest creations, recount individual adventures, discuss artistic opportunities, art techniques, and art news, and last but not least, share our experiences as artists living with autism. Over time we have become a community and many of us are now good freinds.
We also hold both virtual and in-person “Art Meet Ups” where we come together for an entire day of art making and socializing.
Artists can choose to have a Portfolio Page on this site, featuring their artist statement or bio and a sampling of their work.
For more information on our artists and their artwork, upcoming shows and events, membership, potential opportunities, or ways to support our group. please use the CONTACT page.
Our Bricks and Mortar Gallery
Artist Collaborative artwork is on display in our Watertown MA Gallery. Most pieces on display are available for purchase.
The Gallery is located at AANE Headquarters, 85 Main Street, 3rd floor, Watertown, MA 02472. Hours: Monday - Friday 10AM to 4PM or by appointment. (Use contact form to arrange a visit.)
AANE provides individuals, families, and professionals with information, education, community, support, and advocacy AANE, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is the sponsor and parent organization of the AANE Artist Collaborative, which is managed by the Artists themselves.