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Beirut.com

Internal World and Creative Autism by Ali Tlais

Diagnosed with autism at an early age, Tlais, now aged 20, has discovered a pathway of communicating with the world through the language of painting.

Still at the early stages of his career, Tlais has shown a particular interest in landscapes and portraits. The use of vibrant colours, expressive lines and bold imagery creates works that allow the viewer to step into his world and explore his reality. Tlais’s large-scale acrylic-on-canvas works convey emotions often portrayed through intense and magnified facial expressions. His paintings not only possess a strong visual language but they also demonstrate complex painting techniques.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects areas of social communication and interaction. Repetitive and obsessive behavior is a characteristic symptom of autism.
Tlais has transformed this behavior through his painting techniques with the use of repetitive brushstrokes and pointillism. His great patience and incredible ability to focus has allowed his work to evolve and develop his own recognizable style. People often talk about the challenges of Autism, but they rarely consider its gifts. Rita Moukarzel, president of the Lebanese Autism Society states: “One of the main aims in this exhibition is to represent Ali as an artist and not as an autistic person”. His work embodies the way the strengths of Autism can be developed and used towards a productive and in this case creative outlet.

All proceeds contributed to the development of Ali’s artistic career, providing him with an artist to tutor him and guide his work as well as the required materials and facilities. The exhibition was organized under the high patronage and in the presence of his Excellency the minister of social affairs Mr. Wael Abou Faour, “Alfa”, Orascom Telecom Holding, The Lebanese Autism Society and Mark Hachem Gallery.