Joel Anderson

Joel was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. Today, he’s an award-winning artist and outspoken advocate for autism awareness — with a heart bigger than life. Joel prefers to work with acrylic paints, though he also enjoys graphic arts. He is currently studying animation and graphic motion design in college. His art has been published in several books, including the recently released Artism: The Art of Autism by Debbie Hosseini and was also featured in the documentary film ARTS: A Film About Possibilities, Disabilities and the Arts, by Keri Bowers. He received the ANCA Awards, Inaugural 2010 International Award for Community Achievement from Naturally Autistic in British Columbia, Canada and a Certificate of Recognition from the California Senate. Joel hosted the 2011 International Naturally Autistic People Awards and Convention in Vancouver, Canada, and is an official International Ambassador for the 2012 Awards alongside Dr. Temple Grandin. Since 2003, Joel has had the opportunity to realize his goal of helping people with autism, as well as those who love and care for them, through the support of The Autism Tree Project Foundation. With the help of the foundation and others, Joel has spoken to thousands of people, from elementary school to high school and university students, and even large corporations. He has also appeared on many news and radio stations, and shared the stage with celebrities who support autism awareness.