The Journey of ‘Rediscovering Self’

Reflecting on the conclusion of Rediscovering Self fills me with pride and fulfilment. This exhibition was not just about displaying art—it was a journey of self-discovery and advocacy. I embraced both artist and advocate roles, using my work to share stories of neurodivergence.

The exhibition allowed me to spark conversations about neurodivergence, vulnerability, and authenticity. From the excitement of opening night to the heartfelt feedback from visitors, every moment reinforced my identity as an artist who can inspire connection and dialogue.

Opening night was a swirl of emotions—nervousness, excitement, pride, and vulnerability. Seeing the gallery space transformed with my work felt surreal. The atmosphere invited reflection and connection, perfectly setting the stage for what I hoped to achieve: fostering a deeper understanding of neurodivergence.

I wondered how people would respond to these deeply personal works. Would they understand? Would they connect? But as the night unfolded, my nervousness shifted into confidence. Visitors paused thoughtfully, leaning in to read the didactic panels and taking their time with the artworks. What began as my story was becoming a shared experience.

Opening night may have marked the official start of the exhibition, but the connections and reflections that followed throughout the exhibition truly defined the heart of Rediscovering Self. During the first week, a visitor shared that he had been diagnosed with autism just two years ago. We connected over the exhibition's themes, and I could see how much it resonated with him. This interaction reminded me of why I created Rediscovering Self—to provide a space where people can feel seen and understood, especially around experiences that are deeply personal and challenging.

Visitor feedback reflected the deep engagement I had hoped for. Many saw themselves in the pieces, sharing stories of their own neurodivergent experiences. The exhibition was not just about viewing art; it was about fostering empathy, challenging stereotypes, and encouraging others to reflect on their own identities.

One of the most meaningful experiences from the exhibition was the Slow Making & Story Sharing event. It was a calm, sensory-friendly space where participants, many of them neurodivergent, could express themselves through slow, reflective art-making. This communal act of creation allowed for a connection that words often can't express. Watching participants contribute their stories, especially a young girl adding her piece to the Story-Sharing Wall, reminded me of the power of creating safe spaces for self-expression without judgment.

This event reaffirmed my commitment to creating inclusive spaces where others can share their experiences. It wasn't just about my story but about making space for others. Rediscovering Self became a bridge for understanding, empathy, and connection, reinforcing the exhibition’s themes of neurodivergence and identity.

Reflecting on the exhibition, I realise that the moments of self-doubt and uncertainty were necessary stepping stones. Embracing vulnerability allowed for deeper, more meaningful connections with my audience. The exhibition became a shared experience of empathy, reflection, and understanding. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that, though daunting, vulnerability is often the key to creating genuine, impactful art.

Looking ahead, I’m filled with excitement for new projects and directions. The success of this exhibition has reaffirmed my commitment to exploring the themes of neurodivergence, identity, and community through new artistic avenues. I’m also looking forward to completing my Master’s in Creative Arts Therapy, which will deepen my understanding of art’s role in healing and self-expression.

Thank you for joining me on this journey—whether through visiting the exhibition, attending events, or simply following along. Stay connected for more updates, reflections, and future projects as I continue to explore art, identity, and neurodivergence!

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An Autism Diagnosis Led Tegan to Explore ‘Late-Discovered Neurodiversity’ Through Art – An article by Region Riverina covering my journey as an artist and the themes explored in Rediscovering Self.