The Awesome Gallery to host Elizabeth Newell’s debut exhibition, An Act of Defiance throughout the month of October.

“For too long I’ve spent my life trying to be what everyone else wanted me to be instead of who I am. I’ve masked my autistic self, I’ve learned the outside world’s noise language, and I’ve hidden and subdued my sensitive, picture-thinking, autistic mind,” Newell said, “I’ve also masked how much I struggle in this world, and I have stayed quiet about how much help I need because when I have let it show or I have tried to ask for help, I have been gaslighted and have had my experiences mislabeled and invalidated. “

The Awesome Gallery’s owner, Jacquie Mahan is hoping the exhibition will help expose the struggles of autistic and neurodivergent individuals.

“My hope is that visitors leave with a deeper understanding, empathy, and appreciation for the courage and creativity behind her art,” Mahan said.

The exhibition opened September 13 and will be available for viewing until October 24.

The Awesome Gallery space is adjacent to The Awesome Company, located at 3400 Southwest Blvd, Grove City, OH 43123. More information can be found at www.theawesomegallery.com.