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​Sarah Fowler Lawless [email protected]

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Brought to you in ​partnership with

THANK YOU SPONSORS!

Marketing Sponsor

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Hospitality Sponsor

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Activity Sponsor

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Artist Booth Sponsor

THANK YOU
Art for Autism is an annual public event held in San Antonio that offers free booth space to artists with autism of all ages and abilities so they can display and sell their work.

It is with the support of a community of sponsors, donors, and volunteers that ATC, along with our partners at The Shops at La Cantera, are able to host this wonderful event where artists can shine!
​We look forward to the next one!

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This will be Casey Knowles-McDonald’s third year to sell his decorated and delicious, healthy, handmade dog treats at Art for Autism!
Diagnosed with autism at the age of six, the now 24-year-old and his mom, Denise, started Love Puppy Bakery in their hometown of Castroville after discovering that Casey’s dog, Bougie, could not easily digest store-bought treats. Denise took a class on pet nutrition and together, she and Casey created their own organic dog treats that Bougie could eat. That original recipe became their primary go-to and now, they offer three flavors through their on-line store -- peanut, apple pie, and pumpkin spice.
Casey’s favorite part of Art for Autism is seeing all the other artists and their creations. Denise appreciates that almost without realizing it, Casey works on his social skills there by offering treats to attendees.

​Sebastian, a 31-year-old artist with Autism, discovered his love for creating art at a very young age. He began drawing at just 3 years old, starting with his favorite characters like Winnie the Pooh. By age 7, his interests expanded to dinosaurs, and he also began experimenting with sculpting using pipe cleaners and clay. Over the years, art has remained a constant in his life—an expressive outlet that reflects his passions and unique view of the world.
Today, Sebastian paints regularly using acrylics on canvas. His inspiration comes from the world around him and from conversations with others about the things they love. Art provides him with a sense of calm, pride, and independence, while also helping him connect and communicate with his family and community. Through painting, Sebastian continues to grow not only as an artist but as a vibrant and empowered individual.

Lily was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder just before her fourth birthday. Initially nonverbal and facing social challenges, she has made remarkable progress through dedicated speech and occupational therapy. Now 8 years old, she is excited for her third year participating in Art for Autism, an opportunity that allows her to showcase her artwork and connect with others.
Art is not just a hobby for Lily; it is her passion and a powerful form of self-expression. Wherever there is a pencil and paper, she leaps at the chance to create. The support of her loving friends and family adds to her joy at this event, as they come together to celebrate her talent. Lily inspires everyone around her and her creativity knows no bounds!

​Mother to three boys diagnosed with autism, Kim Chau says her sons – Alex, 15, and Caleb, 11 – have participated multiple times in Art for Autism and that the day of the event is ideal for creating a natural environment for her sons to hone their social skills. “They have to engage with kind strangers, remember to speak in full sentences and answer new questions,” she says.
Chau adds that preparing for the events has also given Alex and Caleb the opportunity to practice their executive functioning skills. “They have to plan what they are going to paint, as well as the amount and kind of supplies they need.”
Ryan, 13, has only recently discovered that he enjoys art. Although he is nonverbal, Chau says that in the last year it is apparent that he has decided he now likes art and as a result, his creations will be on display alongside his brothers.’ Chau is hopeful he will use his Augmentive and Assistive Communication Device to interact with customers by sharing his name and age.
Caleb says he likes the people he meets at Art for Autism, especially those who compliment his art. As for Alex, he likes buying gifts for others with the money he makes there.