Program enhancing visibility of neurodiverse artists in Montreal: ‘I hope this is my future’

Their art, a must see.

An innovative art-based social integration program, known as “The Art Seen,” is enhancing the visibility of neurodivergent artists in Montreal. 

“It’s really fantastic,” said artist, Jonathan Pepin. “I’m enjoying it.”

“I feel I created the art is incredible,” said Pepin. “I’m peaceful, I’m enjoying myself.”

And so are the other artists.

Each are students from the English Montreal School Board’s Wager Adult Education Centre.

“I hope this is my future,” said artist, Jessica Teixeira-Pinto. “And then my dreams will become true.”

“I hope so,” she added.

After hearing about a similar initiative in California — Social Integration Teacher from the Wagar Adult Education Centre, Anna Persichilli, wanted her students to also have a space to fine-tune their professional art skills.

Her “abstract” idea came to life – the continuing education program is now in its third edition – and takes up four days of their school week.

“The Art Seen started because the Visual Art Centre collaborated with the EMSB and Wagar adult centre,” explained Persichilli. “To create this new art program so neurodiverse artists can be included in the art scene of Montreal.”

“All we want is to give people access to the ability to make and view art in a way that is, you know, there’s no cost to it, there’s no barrier to it,” said Amber Berson, Executive Director of the Visual Arts Centre. “When I see the art from these students, that is achieved.”

“I see that goal being achieved.”

“First year, we collaborated with the Visual Art Center from our school and they included us in their exhibitions,” said Persichilli. “We had artist talks and it was wonderful.”

“Then they invited us to use one of their studios.”

“I feel like I work in a space where I’m surrounded by incredible art all the time,” added Berson.

Their creativity, showcased at exhibitions and even hung at multiple locations around the city.

Some even sell their masterpieces – they are true artists. 

“Hopefully it’ll inspire other teachers and administrators,” said Persichilli. “To recreate this program in other communities.”

To read more about stories like this, you can head to the Inspirations Newspaper website.

“I love this here,” said Pepin. “Because I’m a famous artist in the whole world.”