The Museum of Monotropism is an immersive installation that weaves together embroidery, mixed media, and found objects, creating a living museum that reflects my autistic brain.

Through my special interests in folk magic and natural history, the exhibition explores autistic ways of perceiving and interacting with the world, centred around the concept of “Monotropism.” Monotropism describes the way that the autistic brain tends to focus very intensely on one or two passionate interests, and struggles to process things outside these “attention tunnels”. While this brings challenges, it also gives autistic people a unique perspective on the world, and immersion in one’s special interests can be a source of immense comfort and calm. Through the Museum, I aim to give a nuanced depiction of autism from an autistic perspective.

Visitors are invited to enter into and interact with a literal museum of my brain. It is an ongoing, evolving project.

Recent iterations:

The Museum of Monotropism at the Folklore Centre, Todmorden (2024)

The Museum of Monotropism at the Neuk Collective group exhibition at Custom Lane Gallery, Leith (2021)

You can find out more about the background of the Museum at What is the Museum of Monotropism?

Close up of most of the pieces can also be viewed on the Embroidery page