Parents of children who are diagnosed with autism usually get tangled into all the negatives associated with the disorder. More often than not, the limitations are highlighted more than the possibilities.

According to autismspeaks.org, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or simply “autism”, “refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and non-verbal communication.” However, the disorder also means that “each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths.” 

To the parents of Julyan Harrison who was diagnosed with autism at age 2, they have learned that all is not lost for people with autism and that they only have to focus on Julyan’s strengths.

“This is our life,” Rachel Harrison whispers as she assuages guests when Julyan inadvertently broke a pottery piece at the opening of the Arte Autismo Filipino (AAF) exhibit at the Globe Art Gallery.

Julyan was among the very talented artists featured in the art exhibit which highlights the various paintings of persons with autism. The paintings, mostly acrylic on canvas, with some mixed media, and a collection by Samantha Kaspar uniquely done with watercolor, is a showcase of talent that challenges autism.

Keith Harrison thanks those in attendance during the opening of the art exhibit

“We are here to create greater awareness among families that struggle,” Keith Harrison, Julyan’s father says, giving thanks especially to the deaf and mute who were among the people serving guests at a coffee bar, also in the namesake of Julyan.

The possibilities are endless through the lens of the mother-and-father tandem who brought up Julyan. All it takes is a Google search of “Julyan Harrison” to see how the couple has showered their son with love throughout the years.

“Children with autism are indeed special. Look at all the artwork on display! This goes to show that love and support goes a long way in dealing with the disorder. Julyan and all the artists here are living examples of life’s beauty. We’re proud to host their work here at the Globe art gallery,” Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability Officer and Head of Corporate Communications, says.

The art exhibit, “Breaking Barriers, Unlocking Possibilities”, presented by AAF, is an example of what people with autism are capable of. To observers present, they see the art as windows to the beautiful souls of the artists who were either the inspiration of the work or did the work themselves.

Julyan and Samantha are joined by other artists with similar conditions including Nina Bantoto, Vico Cham, Chico Joaquin, and Daniel Sanchez.

You could visit the exhibit until June 26, from 8am-7pm at The Globe Tower wherein you will see on display the beautiful artwork and curated materials which were the result of not just immense talent, but also the unconditional love of Rachel and Keith for Julyan and their community of supporters.