Wednesday, May 22, 2013

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Artwork Being Collected for Autism Awareness Month
Kids being asked to submit self-portraits
By KTVA CBS 11 News


ANCHORAGE - In preparation for Autism Awareness Month, the Alaska Autism Resource Center is asking for kids to submit their self-portraits.

Staff are collecting the artwork for the second annual "Art for Autism" show.

The program coordinator, Krista James, says last year they had an overwhelming response and received about 100 entries.

This year they're expanding the list of exhibition locations around Anchorage and Fairbanks.

The theme of the show this year is self-portraits, and staff say it's a great way for kids with autism to let others know how they view themselves.

“We know that with autism, 40 percent of our kids are not able to speak verbally, so art is one way they can express themselves and to show what they're feeling inside and express communication about themselves,” James said.

Autism Awareness Month starts April 1, and the resource center is sending out 50,000 "java jackets" to coffee stands around the state to promote the cause.

You'll be able to see the "Art for Autism" artwork at the following locations starting April 1: Midnight Sun Cafe, Dimond Center Mall, the Anchorage Library and Indigo Tea Lounge. In Fairbanks work will be displayed at the Fairbanks Public Library.