Autistic community and creativity

What’s on offer?

A 2-hour interactive online workshop sharing news about a research project run by an autistic researcher at Northumbria University and introducing the power of creativity for self-expression, specifically designed for autistic individuals. Led by researcher Sara McHaffie and autistic artist Tzipporah Johnston, this session highlights how embroidery can foster a monotropic "flow state," offering calming, focused refuge from stress. After an introduction to research on autistic women’s creative self-expression, Tzipporah will guide participants through basic embroidery techniques before embarking on their own designs. Held via Zoom to ensure accessibility, attendees will receive kits by post with all tools and materials.

What’s it about?

This event explores the intersection of creativity, self-expression, and autistic identity, using embroidery as a focal point. Sara McHaffie's doctoral research demonstrates how autistic women have used this craft to express their thoughts and ideas, finding it a helpful medium for entering a monotropic "flow state" and reflecting on group conversations. The workshop will build on this, offering participants a chance to experience embroidery as a relaxing, mindful activity. 

Tzipporah Johnston, an autistic artist, will share insights into her own work and lead participants through an introduction to the techniques involved. Attendees will learn how crafting can challenge assumptions about autistic traits like hyperfocus, reframing them as tools for wellbeing. Participants will be encouraged to embroider a design that reflects their interests and identity. This session is a great opportunity for those passionate about autistic rights and creativity to engage with new research, explore a new form of self-expression, and spend time with other autistic women in a neuroaffirmative environment. 

Access: Closed captions will be available. For participants with fine motor skill challenges, drawing can be substituted for embroidering. For any other access requirements, please get in touch at: sara.mchaffie@northumbria.ac.uk 

Who’s leading the event?

Sara McHaffie, a PhD researcher in sociology and Tzipporah Johnston, an artist and member of Neuk Collective

Open to

The event is for adults, especially autistic adults and other neurodivergent adults, including self-identified autistic and neurodivergent adults. 

Of particular interest to

The event will be of particular interest to autistic and neurodivergent adults who are interested in being creative.  

Scheduling information

We will host the event on Zoom. A link will be e-mailed before the event. If you would like support to access Zoom beforehand, please get in touch. 

Event booking deadline