At the OCAG, we often talk about the power of art to connect, uplift, and tell stories.

As part of the Third Annual Autism Acceptance Virtual Art Expo: Autism in Action, hosted by the New Jersey Department of Education’s Office of Special Education (OSE), more than 370 original works from students across 65 districts are being celebrated. The exhibit honors Autism Acceptance Month by creating meaningful opportunities for students on the spectrum to express themselves and be recognized for their unique perspectives.

Among those voices is Christian, a kindergarten student whose artwork, “Sunny Day” captures a feeling. Lynette Byrnes, who works closely with her students to encourage both observation and imagination, describes the process behind Christian’s piece with care and intention:

“As my students approach each new day, we walk to the window and discuss the weather during our morning meeting. I ask them to observe the details of the universe around them. After the observation, a method of spontaneous drawing is used to express the inner workings of the human psyche.”

From that daily ritual came Christian’s vibrant interpretation of a “Sunny Day.” Inspired by the whimsical, abstract style of Joan Miró, his artwork bursts with bright colors, fluid shapes, and floating forms, capturing the essence of sunlight dancing through clouds. This mixed media assemblage piece incorporates cut paper, layered composition, repeating patterns, and expressive pastel accents. The result is both playful and profound: a visual translation of how Christian experiences the world around him.

Lynette recognized the significance of his work immediately, and made sure it had a place on a larger stage. By guiding Christian through the submission process, she helped ensure his voice would be part of this statewide celebration. Christian’s piece is more than just a “Sunny Day.” It is, as the exhibition theme suggests, Autism in Action, a living example of creativity, expression, and the beauty of seeing the world through a different lens.