About Stephanie

I am Stephanie and I am a 37 year old autistic artist. I received my autism diagnosis in 2021; before that I was diagnosed with ADHD, major depression, and general anxiety which is actually pretty common for us autistic women! 

Autistic women often “mask” our autism really well in order to fit into society and not be singled out for being odd. That's why when you meet me, you may think “you don’t look/sound/act autistic,” but trust me, it takes A LOT of effort to appear like your average everyday human. 

If it were up to me, I’d draw for money, listen to the same song on repeat 572 times, communicate only through text, and probably discuss dogs or birds or cats (and if you are a dog, cat, or bird, it’s more likely I will speak verbally to you). My favorite activity is being knocked around by ocean waves (sensory joy!) - something I could literally do all day until I passed out. 


I don’t like loud or repetitive noises. In fact, when I am home I am usually in silence. It’s easier to concentrate! Fresh fruit grosses me out because you never know if the texture, smell, or taste is going to be consistent (spoiler alert- it never is). 


If there’s one thing I truly crave, it’s consistency. I like routines, organization, itineraries, and plans. If I seem nosey, it’s because I need to have ALL the info and facts to feel secure about anything and everything. 


I might come off as stuck up, but only because I’m too nervous to say hi and strike up a conversation (or don’t know what to say). And if I look sad/angry/bored, I’m not - my brain is always in overdrive and I’m not as aware of my face/body as others (which is why I always look terrible in photos). 


So please, I encourage you to reach out regarding my special interests! I would love to brainstorm and discuss my experience and knowledge with teaching and creating art.

Artist Statement

Due to growing up unknowingly autistic and suppressing my true self for so long, I struggle daily with self love and imposter syndrome. I have been on a lifelong journey to discover who I really am and how I’ve gotten here. Mostly, I am searching for answers to all the questions about why I think and feel so differently from others. 


Since I was a small child, the one thing that has always cheered me up and helps me feel the most like “me” is drawing and making things. 


My inspiration for my artwork is this self-exploration.  I see my entire self - my brain, emotions, relationships, choices, preferences, and the way all of those intersect - as a puzzle to be solved. With each piece of art I create, the larger picture of who I am becomes clearer. It helps me process my feelings by putting images to the words I can’t find. It is a way to share the things I am thinking about or obsessed over with others. I am also able to explore new mediums and techniques. Creating art is making me whole again, and with that comes confidence and self acceptance.