Name: Bluecoat
Price range: $

The collection of 6 designs will be displayed in arts and culture spaces and other public buildings around Liverpool for the duration of the festival. The posters feature colourful painted backdrops created by Blue Room artists in their studio at the Bluecoat. A series of silhouette figures illustrate the different concepts and were inspired by the artist Henri Matisse. They feature bold statements that celebrate different ways of being and thinking and were developed during discussions with the festival’s steering group of neurodivergent artists and conversations within Blue Room’s own member forum.

“The artists embraced a professional design brief from the Brain Charity and created illustrations from life-drawing sessions, abstract painted backgrounds and slogans to celebrate inclusivity and neurodiversity. Working with graphic designer Ant, they were both illustrators and a focus group, making beautiful drawings alongside insightful, practical and creative choices about text size, colour and readability. We're so proud to have Blue Room illustrations and ideas shared throughout the city as part of the festival.”

Rachel McMahon, Blue Room Facilitator

The aim of the posters is to reassure neurodivergent people who are visiting arts and culture venues for the festival, that they can be themselves and ask for adjustments if required. It is also hoped that the posters will raise awareness of the need for greater tolerance and understanding of people who may have support needs or find busy public spaces challenging. Blue Room artist Amy whose work features on one of the designs said she felt her poster ’looked professional and felt inviting’.

A yellow motif on the posters declares a ‘Stim Safe Space’. Stimming is a way for some neurodivergent people to deal with stress or sensory overwhelm by doing repetitive movements or making sounds. For others, stimming is a source of enjoyment rather than an indicator of stress.

“The artwork created by Blue Room artists is absolutely amazing! Their openness and enthusiasm made it a great environment to share ideas and focus on showcasing the artist’s talent and hard work. While the posters are the final product, there was so much brilliant work behind the scenes, with every illustration and painting adding life and character to the designs. The team at Blue Room do incredible work. It was so rewarding to be part of this project."

Ant Johnson, Designer

The Neurodiversity Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of neurodivergent talent, diverse perspectives and creative expression, dedicated to celebrating neurodiversity and providing a platform for neurodivergent artists.

“This is a chance not only to showcase neurodivergent talent, but to educate the public about neurodiversity and improve accessibility for neurodivergent people in public spaces. The public information posters designed in collaboration with Blue Room artists at the Bluecoat achieve all three of these aims. The background images are both vibrant and eye-catching, and the messages on each one are really important, encouraging us all to think more about neurodiversity. The team has been fantastic and their work has really helped us to achieve our festival aims.’’

Chris Beaumont, The Brain Charity