Justin Peterson amazes everybody around him with his artistic abilities.

Justin Peterson was born November 8, 1995.  Around the age of three he was diagnosed with PDD-NOS, and had been fully diagnosed at the age of seven with the devastating disease known as Autism. This directed his family in a whole new direction to know he will never be considered normal like every other human being.  As he grew older though, he amazed everyone. Peterson began socializing, teaching himself to play the piano, and making his own artwork.

Peterson is a sophomore in Tim Avere’s class at Mayfield High School. In 2010, he had submitted two pieces of his artwork to Grand River Cellars Winery, where they were having a contest for autistic children’s artwork. He won and received a one hundred dollar reward, along with having his picture featured on a wine bottle for two years.  Peterson shows even though he has a severe case of autism, he can do what he loves most.

Peterson and I have had an interview in person, but during the interview his answers had not been very long. He does not have the ability to have a full conversation with me.  So I have asked him, “what is your favorite thing to draw?” and he responded, “Disney.” He also has a certain interest in Star Wars. Clay sculptures are also one of his specialties. His favorite sculpture to build would be the Disney Castle. My last question I asked Peterson was “does drawing and painting make you happy?” He answered, “Yes.” Every day it is something new with him, he amazes his family and others by his abilities.

Painting is part of Peterson’s therapy, and how he relaxes. Peterson also loves his computer time; it’s where he finds out most of his ideas to draw and paint. Peterson’s mother, Laura Peterson, is having him paint pictures for friends and family. Mrs. Peterson says, “My son has such an amazing ability, I love that every day I get to see new artwork he makes.” Mrs. Weber adds, “My grandson Justin just brings happiness to our family with his art, I myself am an artist and I love the pieces he does. They are magnificent.”

Peterson’s family hopes one day that his art will speak something for children all around the world that have autism. They believe just because you have a disability, and you’re not considered normal like everyone else in the world, you can still accomplish something you love.

Art therapy helps kids everywhere that are diagnosed with Autism; not just Peterson. Art therapy helps so much with the sensory and communication needs; it really helps build an understanding to what the child is trying to say, and how they express themselves if they cannot be understood. A lot of autistic children are gifted in many different areas. As for Peterson, Music and Art are his gifts, and his passion grows more and more for it each and every day.