A quiet room, the hum of a fan, the gentle weight of a weighted blanket—these small details may seem insignificant, but for an autistic adult, they can be the difference between comfort and distress. Imagine navigating a world that often feels overwhelming, where social expectations are unspoken and sensory experiences can be overpowering. Imagine finding solace in a single object—a familiar book, a carefully arranged collection, or a noise-cancelling headset that provides a moment of calm.
Autistic adults experience the world in ways many may never see or understand. Their lives are full of complexity, resilience, and deeply personal rituals that help them find balance. Yet, their stories remain largely untold, hidden behind the broad focus on autism in childhood.
This project seeks to change that.
Introduction
Autism is often portrayed through the lens of childhood, with limited representation of autistic individuals as they navigate adulthood. Unfiltered seeks to change that by bringing the lived experiences of autistic adults into the spotlight. Through a compelling collection of portraits and images of personal objects, this project tells the stories of individuals who too often remain unseen and unheard. Each image will be paired with narratives that offer a glimpse into their challenges, triumphs, and unique ways of experiencing the world.
The Vision
Imagine stepping into an exhibition where each portrait reveals not just a face but a journey—a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and identity. Alongside each image, an object stands as a silent witness to the personal stories of its owner. It might be a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, a childhood toy, a collection of neatly organized books, or a fidget tool—each item holding meaning in the life of an autistic adult.
This project is about seeing autism through the eyes of those who live it, not just through statistics and medical definitions but through human connection.
The Stories Behind the Images
The project brings together autistic adults from diverse backgrounds, each with their own experiences of navigating a world built for neurotypical minds. Some have received their diagnoses late in life, finally finding answers that make sense of their struggles. Others have spent years masking their traits, learning to fit into a society that rarely accommodates their needs. And some embrace their autism fully, advocating for greater understanding and acceptance.
Their stories are complex. Some speak of isolation and misunderstanding, but many also tell of self-acceptance, deep focus, unique talents, and strong passions. Each story is personal, yet together they form a tapestry of experiences that reflect the breadth of autistic adulthood.
Why This Matters
Autistic adults face many challenges that often go unrecognised.
- Employment Barriers: Only 22% of autistic adults in the UK are in full-time employment.
- Mental Health Struggles: Over 70% experience anxiety and depression.
- Late Diagnoses: Many are diagnosed in their 30s, 40s, or even later in life.
- Sensory Sensitivities: The overwhelming nature of daily life can make social interactions, workplaces, and public spaces difficult to navigate.
These numbers tell a part of the story, but the people behind them bring it to life. Unfiltered is about seeing autism not as a statistic but as a lived reality, shaped by both struggle and strength.
The Journey of the Project
The process begins with finding individuals who wish to share their stories. Through conversations, interviews, and shared experiences, their voices will shape the project. Photography sessions will take place in environments where they feel comfortable, capturing their natural expressions and surroundings. The accompanying object photography will add a deeply personal layer to each story, symbolising the ways in which autism influences daily life.
Once the images and stories are gathered, they will be curated into a thought-provoking exhibition, designed to challenge perceptions and spark conversations. The project will travel to different locations, reaching audiences who may have never considered what it means to be an autistic adult. Alongside the exhibition, a book will be published—an enduring record of these powerful narratives that can continue to educate and inspire long after the last photograph is taken down.
Looking Ahead
Through Unfiltered, we hope to open minds, shift perspectives, and create a deeper understanding of autism in adulthood. This is not just an exhibition—it is a movement towards greater visibility, empathy, and inclusion. It is an invitation to see beyond the stereotypes and appreciate the rich, diverse experiences of autistic adults.
This project will grow through the voices of those willing to share their stories. If you are autistic and want to be part of this journey, or if you are interested in supporting the project, we would love to hear from you.
