Founding Directors
Mary Simpson
Esteemed expert in Autism and related subjects.
I've worked within the health and social care sector for over 30 years, and I was the chief executive officer (CEO) of a large autism charity for 20 years. In this position, I was able to support thousands of autistic people, children with autism and their families. I have been a strong advocate and campaigner to ensure their rights are observed and more importantly that their voices are heard.
I am incredibly proud to have been the Chair of the Autism Alliance, this is 16 charities that works collaboratively in support of children and autistic people. During my time as Chair of the Alliance, we were able to collaborate with key stakeholders and government on the national strategy for autistic children, young people and adults 2021 to 2026. This legislation was ground breaking in that it ensures their rights are now enshrined in legislation, this will have a positive benefit for autistic people, young adults and children and their families.
I have worked with Sacha Craddock on the development nationally of an acclaimed art award for autistic people. The awards are to increase the awareness between excellent art and autism and to reveal to institutions and cultural bodies the high level of artistic talent that exists creating a unique archive of work by autistic artists.
My work as a counsellor on the rape and sexual abuse helpline has supported many individuals to deal with their trauma and move onto a brighter future.
I am also a practicing break up and divorce coach with international clients helping and supporting individuals clarify the complexities of their break up or divorce, and support them through the difficult process to achieve the life they want.
Sacha Craddock
Celebrated curator, art critic and educator.
Invited to work with Spectrum, I spent a good deal of time in discussion with Mary Simpson and others about how best to celebrate the relationship between Art and Autism. As a critic and curator with decades of experience in education, critical writing, and curating, as the founder of many educational and curatorial awards and initiatives, I have a fervent desire to defend the making of good art without ever stipulating who it is for and what it might say.
It took three years to create the award with its sensible and democratic process. We wanted to encourage good people to apply and yet discourage no one. Aware that self-confidence is not necessarily a guarantee of ability, this is particularly clear with artists who are autistic. We know that the work itself has to speak out and that the award, selected by excellent artists, also provides the public with some of the most current and gripping works by artists with Autism.
Over the years that I have worked with Mary, I have learnt so much about the various, varied range of experiences of people with Autism. There are no fixed rules. I am Used to supporting artists at all levels of experience, education, and age and see the AAA as a natural step.