Hope Flynn, an autistic artist, muralist, and illustrator, graduated from OCAD University in 2018 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree specializing in Drawing and Painting. Since then, her focus has shifted to the realism of animal paintings, garnering grant funding from the Ontario Arts Council and selling over 400 custom animal paintings worldwide.
In 2021, Hope ventured into public art through the Mural Routes program “Introduction to Mural Art,” where she volunteered for Poonam Sharma’s mural “Ode To Belonging.” Inspired by this experience, she aimed to bring her art to the public, securing commissions from various organizations and participating in the Step Public Art program, “CreateSpace Public Art Forum.” Hope was a part of the Exclusive Inclusive Art Project in both years.
Year 2: Murals
Hope’s murals, trace the evolution of the autism symbol from the puzzle piece (1963-2018) to the infinite symbol (adopted in 2018). The murals incorporate animals, landscapes, and iconic Milton structures within the infinite symbol. This amalgamation symbolizes the boundless potential of individuals with autism, showcasing their unique abilities and endless prospects.
The murals, a testament to Hope Flynn’s thoughtful conceptualization, intertwine the narrative of autism’s symbolic journey with vivid depictions of local landmarks and nature. Serving as a transformative emblem, the mural fosters understanding, acceptance, and admiration for the remarkable diversity within the autism community.
Year 1: Traffix Boxes
In their spectrum artwork, the artist represents individuals with disabilities. Being a person with Autism, their daily life is impacted by a disability that remains unseen. For instance, during moments of contemplation, they may struggle to articulate their thoughts despite having a clear mental image. To symbolize this, computer chip lines are drawn in the background, reflecting the intricate workings inside their mind. The interconnected wires represent moments of clarity and disconnection, mirroring the challenges faced when expressing thoughts.
The inclusion of birds and flowers in the artwork signifies the internal landscape when a vivid mental image lacks verbal description. Despite the invisible nature of their disability, external observers may not perceive it, often forming judgments based on speech patterns. Through their art, the artist aims to broaden viewers’ perspectives on neurological disabilities, emphasizing that not every disability is visible to the eye.
(This Traffic Box is located at Main Street and Maple Avenue/Sinclair Boulevard)
