A spotlight on neurodiversity in handmade book

The culmination of three years of study at Solent, Emily's FMP, Pieced Together, draws on her own life and invites people to consider mental health and neurodiversity in a new way.

"One of my biggest inspirations was my own personal experiences," she says. "I think using art and creativity is a great way to invite people to look through different perspectives." 

Pieced Together is a handmade book which, through drawings, paintings and digital art, explores fluctuating mental health and the experience of being neurodivergent. An estimated 15% of the UK population are neurodivergent, and there is a growing number of people being diagnosed with conditions such as autism and ADHD. Emily's FMP responds to that with a bespoke book which inspires empathy and understanding. She says:

"It's important for me to raise awareness of mental health and neurodivergence within my work as it is such a common struggle amongst all of us. It can be difficult at times to regulate and understand our emotions, and what we might be going through.

"This project has come from a very personal space. It helps people to understand they aren't alone with their experiences, and hopefully my work can make a difference."

In 2024, Emily exhibited her work for the first time, at The Makers Guild's Imagination Refinery in Gosport. She graduates from Solent University on Tuesday 8 July. As an emerging creative, Emily credits the University for helping her develop her skills:

"Studying illustration has allowed me to really push myself further and come out of my comfort zone. It's boosted my confidence and has allowed me to approach my work and topics in a way that I couldn't before."

Solent’s Course Leader Visual Communication, Dr Lorna Sheppard says:

“The illustration degree at Solent University offers a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that invites students to delve into a variety of creative processes. This programme is thoughtfully designed to cultivate confidence in each student's artistic capabilities while encouraging exploration of subjects that resonate on a personal level.

“By fostering an environment that values individuality and expression, the course equips aspiring illustrators with the necessary skills and insights to develop their unique artistic voice and navigate the evolving landscape of the illustration field.”