Supporting autism with art and literature

NEUROKIN, a new magazine written for neurodivergent adults by neurodivergent adults, was launched at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens last weekend.

Heathcote writer Tracie Louise had her first poem about neurodiversity published in the inaugural issue and attended the launch.

“We celebrated the launch with a picnic,” Ms Louise said.

“Despite cold and rainy weather, we enjoyed good food and good company in the beautiful setting at Castlemaine Botanical Gardens.

“I attended with my NDIS support worker, Caralyn Collins from Guiding Steps Therapeutic Services in Bendigo.

“It was an opportunity to meet other autistic and ADHD creatives, who use art and literature to express their uniqueness.

“Neurokin magazine is a publication written by neurodivergent people, for neurodivergent people. It features writing, art, identity, culture, relationships, gender, advocacy and cooking.

“Neurokin supports people with autism, ADHD, bipolar disorder, as well as complex mental health challenges.

“There will be an arts festival coming up in June, with music, performance, book fair and makers market.

“Neurokin’s goal is to showcase and celebrate diverse creativity whilst fostering neurodivergent community, culture and leadership.”

Ms Louise’s poem, Hidden, tells of her feelings after being diagnosed as neurodiverse at 55.

“It is good to have my voice heard,” she said. “I always felt silenced because I was different.

“The poem was the first I wrote and read to the Heathcote Writers’ Playgroup after I joined last year.

“They are very supportive, and I have made some wonderful friends.”

Neurokin magazine is seeking submissions for the second issue, which will be released in April. For further information visit neurokin.org.au.