Nathan finds authentic expression through art

During the initial COVID-19 lockdown in early 2020, many of us suddenly found ourselves locked up inside, looking for ways to keep busy. For eight-year-old Nathan, it gave him the space and time to unleash his artistic talent. Two years later, he now has his very own small business, selling his unique pieces, with the support of his parents Cris and Diego.

‘Nathan is on the Autism Spectrum, so he can have some difficulty communicating.

‘When he draws, he communicates how he feels, what he loves, along with objects and places. He will only very draw what he wants. It is his unique way of communicating,’ says Nathan’s mum Cris.

The beginning of Nathan’s artistic journey coincided with his family finding Montrose’s services. For the two years since, Nathan has been attending sessions with his Montrose Speech Pathologist Chloe and Occupational Therapist Jan, at the South Brisbane Clinic in Darra.

Montrose client Nathan with rainbow T-shirt

‘Having a multi-disciplinary team is so important for us as parents. For example, they [the therapists] are able to share strategies and make sure we maximise our budget,’ said Cris.

Nathan’s family are so impressed with the skills he is learning in his sessions and are pleased to work alongside therapists who understand that he will express himself in his own unique way.

‘He has been working on his handwriting. After working with the therapist, we found that previously he had inappropriate tools, so we let him choose his preferred pen or thick marker.’

‘Nathan will develop and communicate in his own natural way. Our job is to facilitate and understand,’ Cris said.

Nathan’s bright and expressive artworks are available to purchase at www.redbubble.com/people/nathandalmolin/shop or you can follow him on Instagram at @nathandalmolindesigns

Nathan donates 50% of his profits to support ASD kids.