Austin’s Story

Before Austin was introduced to the RedBird Art Studio, he was quiet and kept to himself. He didn’t interact with his peers and rarely participated in the activities offered by Cardinal Services.

Being non-verbal, he also didn’t communicate his needs or feelings in a conventional way. 

One day, a paintbrush was placed in his hand and things began to change. At first, Austin covered every canvas in red paint, nothing else. Over time and with guidance from some of the RedBird support staff, he started exploring.

Different colors of paint began appearing on top of the red, then the red was replaced with other colors and patterns. In a few short years, Austin developed his own personal style of abstract art.

Cardinal staff affectionately call it Austinizing, where he uses cups to throw paint at the canvas, creating a look very similar to American artist Jackson Pollock. 

As Austin’s style evolved, Austin himself also evolved.  He became more animated, bounding into the RedBird with excitement. He looks you in the eye and communicates in his own way to select his colors.

At shows, he interacts with the individuals in attendance. His artwork is well-known in the area, as well. This year, a fan drove down from Michigan to purchase two of his pieces, and he has been commissioned to do several larger pieces. 

Austin’s mother has seen a difference in him since getting involved with the RedBird.

 “Since Austin came to Cardinal Services and began painting, I have learned that so many things are possible for him which were not possible prior to his exposure to art in the RedBird,” said his mother, Tahnee West.

“I have discovered that Austin is able to express himself in ways I never thought possible and that he has so much to say despite not being able to speak with words.  He speaks to me in each piece he creates, and his voice is a very loud and joyful noise through art!”