About
Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person’s lifetime. It is part of a group of disorders known as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Today, 1 in 150 individuals is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person’s ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors, such as obsessively arranging objects or following very specific routines. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe.” — Autism Speaks
Claudine Intner and her son at the National Walk Now for Autism 2008 in Washington, DC.
How ART NOW FOR AUTISM started…
My name is Claudine Intner, and I am the organizer of Art Now for Autism. Four years ago our son was diagnosed with autism. We had struggled for a few years prior trying to figure out what was going on with him. It was devastating. As we worked to find him the best education and services, we decided we wanted to do more to defeat autism and prevent other children and families from having to go through this.
In 2006, we signed up for an autism charity walk in Washington, DC. In order to raise money, I came up with the idea of selling my collages. I sold over 20 pieces and with the help of family we raised over $3,000.
In 2007, I decided I needed more help with the project. I reached out to artist friends as well as total strangers and requested art donations. Art Now for Autism was born. The first annual exhibit and sale was held in October 2007 to coincide with the Walk Now for Autism in Washington, DC. 26 artists donated over 40 works of art to the cause. We raised almost $4,000 for Autism Speaks. Click here to read the Bay Weekly article about Art Now for Autism.
In 2008, Art Now for Autism really took off! I was overwhelmed by art donations from over 120 artists! The exhibit included a wide range of art as well as an enormous collection of original puzzle pins. We raised over $7,000 through the exhibit. Stories ran in a number of publications including The Capital, Autism Asperger’s Digest Magazine, The Artist’s Magazine, Art Calendar and more. It was very exciting!
In 2009, we held an online reverse auction and raised over $5,000!
In 2010, Art Now for Autism is delighted to be supported by the Breaking Traditions Art Quilt Exhibit. Art quilters around the country are creating autism themed quilts in support of Art Now for Autism’s fundraising efforts!
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The future… We hope to make Art Now for Autism an official non-profit. Currently we operate on a not-for-profit basis with 100% of art sales going directly to Autism Speaks. The funds raised from Cafe Press sales are used to pay for the web site, publicity, and other supplies. In the future, we hope to bring back the puzzle pin sale, expand our fundraising efforts to benefit other organizations, and expand interest and therapy in the arts for those on the spectrum. If you are interested in being a part of Art Now for Autism’s board of directors, please contact Claudine.