Recent research on neurodivergence and creativity posits that persons with neurodiverse traits have heightened access to creative thinking. Conversations among researchers suggest that having a divergent mind might lead to divergent thinking, or ‘thinking outside the box,’ which is a strength for anyone in a creative field. What do creative practitioners and teachers have to say on the connections between neurodivergence and creative arts? How do creative practitioners and teachers engage with neurodivergence, whether their own or that of their audience or students?

We invite you to submit proposals for papers, panels, and hands-on activities that consider creative arts and neurodivergence (ND) in all its forms including autism, ADHD/ADD, PTSD/CPTSD, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and dyslexia. We welcome proposals from those who identify as ND, whether they are diagnosed, awaiting diagnosis, or self-diagnosed, and from those who identify as neurotypical and work with creatives who identify as ND. Proposals may be for the online session on Thursday (June 19) or in person on Friday or Saturday (June 20-21).

Keynote sessions will include a workshop and performance by neurodivergent artists Xan Dye and Gerald Curtis, who will share concepts from their movement and visual art project Practicing in Parallel.

Submission Guidelines

Please submit all proposals for the conference consisting of an abstract of up to 200 words (which, if accepted, will be included in conference materials), and a 50-word bio for each presenter. If you would prefer to submit an audio or video proposal, please make this no more than 3 minutes long.

Proposal submission deadline: 31 January 2025

Decision date: 15 March 2025

Email address for submissions: ccand2022[at]gmail.com

Possible areas of focus or topics to address may include:

• How does neurodivergence affect your artistic practice or your relationship with creativity? How does ND affect teaching creative arts?
• Has there been a ‘before and after’ in relation to identifying as ND in terms of how you see your art?
• Do you feel you have any advantage or disadvantage as a practitioner in identifying as ND?
• How do you make your own creative space welcoming and adaptable for your needs as a practitioner? When working with other creatives, teaching, or leading community workshops?
• How does ND impact your relationship with publication, production, exhibition, or performance? With engaging with your readers or audience?

Proposals must be grounded in research and/or critical reflection. We especially welcome hands-on activities that can work online or in-person or both. Please don’t hesitate to write in advance of the submission deadline if you have any questions.