Autism Association 2024 Annual Report

Daniel’s Story

When Daniel started collecting bottles for Containers for Change last year, he never imagined what it would lead to. Collecting bottles from staff, visitors, and housemates, Daniel’s therapist, Josephine and his support team, worked with him to transform his collection into works of art. Creating designs using the caps from each bottle he collected, Daniel has produced five beautiful pieces of artwork which he now uses to decorate his home. The first piece of artwork Daniel created was themed ‘Under the Water,’ and now, seven months later, Daniel is not done yet! As well as designing his art, Daniel spends time preparing for each piece. This includes talking to his support workers in advance about the supplies he needs and then shopping for these materials at his local Bunnings. Once Daniel has collected materials from Bunnings, he begins each artwork project. This starts with categorising the bottle caps into colours, followed by laying out the design and gluing down each piece. Planning and patience are an important part of the art process, and have taught Daniel some valuable skills while providing him with a project that relieves his anxiety through focusing on something he enjoys. Josephine, Daniel’s therapist says: “It’s been so great to see Daniel produce something he can be proud of. Not only does he enjoy working on his art, but he has also been able to work on important skills such as planning and organising, which he will be able to use in other aspects of his life.” Daniel’s artworks have brightened up his back patio. His aim is to produce enough pieces of art to cover his veranda wall! We look forward to seeing more of Daniel’s artwork on display at his home.

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