My 6-Year-Old With Autism Creates Stunning Art And Angelina Jolie Just Bought Her Painting!
The story of Iris Grace and her best friend Thula has been told on Bored Panda before but what came afterwards was incredible.
Iris, a six-year-old with autism found her voice through painting and her faithful companion. The word spread across the globe, Iris and Thula were sending out a strong message – that different is brilliant. Her artwork has been bought by collectors, including Angelina Jolie. For the first time our family took a trip abroad to Stockholm, a remarkable achievement for a little girl who was once isolated at home unable to speak or be around others.
Now talking, reading and enjoying her home education it’s a different story. I decided to tell our story in our first book ‘Iris Grace’. 3 artists have come together, the painter, the photographer and the illustrator, through words and pictures you will be transported into Iris’s world with the help of Thula, their trusty feline artist assistant. 42 beautiful paintings, 15 illustrations and loads of photos make this an extraordinary memoir to treasure forever. I wanted to raise awareness of autism, to show people that there can be a future, a bright one. The techniques that work for Iris may not work with every child but I do believe there is always a key – it is about following the lead of your child.
More info: Amazon | irisgracepainting.com | Facebook
The story of my 6-year-old daughter with autism and her best friend Thula has been told on Bored Panda before and what came afterwards was incredible
The word spread across the globe, Iris and Thula were sending out a strong message – that different is brilliant
Iris is an excellent example of the unexpected gifts that autism can also grant
Her exceptional focus and attention to details have helped her create incredibly beautiful paintings
She found her voice through painting and her faithful companion – Thula, the artist assistant
Iris’s artwork has been bought by collectors before, but one of the biggest surprises was Angelina Jolie!
‘Sunflakes’ by Iris Grace
For the first time our family took a trip abroad to Stockholm, a remarkable achievement for a little girl who was once isolated at home unable to speak or be around others
Now talking, reading and enjoying her home education it’s a different story
I love that we don’t have to conform, we can just go with the flow and follow Iris and she is happy
She’s is more responsive, calm and easy when I set up ‘playrooms’ within the garden or even sometimes out in the countryside…
…and of course wherever we go, Thula comes with us
Even going on bike rides…
…or for a swim
Autism has opened up my perceptions of how you can teach a child
It doesn’t have to be in a classroom it can be wherever the child is most comfortable, using their own interests to inspire them
So I decided to tell our story in our first book
‘Blossom in the Wind’ one of 42 paintings in the book
3 artists have come together, the painter, the photographer and the illustrator
We told her story through words and pictures with the help of Thula, her trusty feline artist assistant
I wanted to raise awareness of autism, to show people that there can be a future, a bright one
The techniques that work for Iris may not work with every child but I do believe there is always a key
It is about following the lead of your child
‘Dance to the Oboe’ by Iris Grace
‘Thula Mtwana’ by Iris Grace
‘Dancing in Snowflakes’ by Iris Grace
‘Meadow Foxtail’ by Iris Grace
‘Trumpet’ by Iris Grace
‘Under the Sea’ by Iris Grace
Highlights of Iris and Thula
181Kviews
Share on FacebookOr Iris even noticing the cat? Which is not to say that it couldn't be a totally magical relationship. Yet ... as a parent of a child "on the spectrum", I can say that this is NOT exactly a typical view of autism (if there even is such a thing as "typical" in the autism world). In the popular press, those with autism are so frequently portrayed as having some incredible gift — and some certainly do, but a small percentage. Those gifted autistics naturally get all the exposure. The reality for many is a very different, and very mundane struggle, not worthy of online videos, or Facebook posts, or the attention of art collectors. Just a very, very challenging struggle.
Hi Beth, I hope you have read all you can about Iris Grace and the "therapy" cat Thula. It is a beautiful story. On a different level, I support what the parents are doing as far as facebook, videos and the like is concerned. They are showing what works for them. Perhaps it does not work for anyone else, but can be used as an idea or stepping stone. I firmly believe that sharing this story in whatever way possible can only be for the betterment of us all on this earth.
Load More Replies...I am so disappointed in the negative comments. Everyone's life and story is different, the take home message is that they are reporting a difference in this child....so why not celebrate it! That is what is most important. Thank you continuing to update us on this little help to send her family.
Autism, no matter what spectrum, affects every child and family. As much as others suffer from a daily violent tantrum or poor motor movements and facial dysmorphia, the struggles raising a child with its own world and unresponsive even to his/her parents are also real. Not everyone's situations are the same. I really hate those commenters who only think there is only one type of Autism and they feel like theirs is the only one worthy of public sympathy. I have Aspergers and no one can tell me my struggles were not real just because it they were not the same for others!
Load More Replies...What a beautiful and touching story, thank you so much for sharing with us your joy! Your daughter is very talented personality and I'm happy know she has so wonderful faithful companion like Thula! I'm sincerely happy for all your family!
There are plenty like Iris that don't have privilege to be recognized or earn some money for future living. Our world this days is all about fame.
Regardless of the story, I think the pictures have their own worth. They have great harmony, there are many layers, delicate movement and the impression of light. And although they are not the result of a long and difficult journey of the artist, like the strife of Jackson Pollock for example, or years of education and craftsmanshp like Monet's or Turner's work, I think they are really beautiful. They are pictures you can hang on your wall and look at again and again, always finding something to soothe or inspire you.
It reminded me of the Impressionists. I loved the colors and think they resemble watercolors. I have some art like this and I love it.
Load More Replies...This family seems to be, at least by some appearances, affluent and I think that's why some people here are being negative. If this were a less well-to-do family, or poor, there'd probably be a lot less negativity. Envy is an ugly beast.
Victor, I agree that some of the negative comments may be due to envy. But I also believe that it's sad that there are those without the financial means or circumstances to help their child like they'd like to. Little Iris has loving parents with the foresight and means to help her. I only wish all who needed help could achieve their full potential too.
Load More Replies...Yes. A lovely story. What a remarkable cat! And a gorgeous, adorable little girl. With phenomenal artistic ability. (Give me any one of those paintings - I would pay a lot to have those INCREDIBLY beautiful things on my wall.) And all from this very young child? Marvelous. I wish I could meet Iris, and I so, so, absolutely wish her and her family the very best. I bet that her art and her beauty will give her a really good life. It does appear that Iris's family has plenty of money to put her story out there. The skeptic in me thinks that maybe it isn't all about showing the positive side of autism? The book, the video ... very slick and well-produced. That's not necessarily saying anything. Yes, I can see why the family might do this - this little girl has such a gift, and she should be able to benefit from her talent. The cat part? It's both wonderful and also feels to me like a bit of an angle? There is not a single image of Iris and the cat actually interacting? Or Iris even not
Wow, what an incredibly bitter person you choose to be. I'm sorry that you have such low self-esteem and such negativity in your life. I'm not rich, I have 3 kids with some form of something on the spectrum and my husband died leaving me with nothing but a stack of medical bills. I still choose not to let life make me bitter!! I was also taught basic manners and common courtesy--if I can't find anything to say that's not just downright mean and nasty, then I don't say anything at all. I'm sorry for whatever has happened to make you sound like such an awful person. I hope that's not a true portrayal of who you are as a person.
Load More Replies...Well, I think it is a lovely story. Besides what Beth Howard said, that might have a good point. I don't really know how is it for other childs with autism, so I will not make any comment on that. The paintings look really interesting for me, and that gorgeous cat seems to be helping the child. I don't know what were you expecting to see on her relationship with the cat, but based on the pictures of the other post about this little girl, she looks like having some kind of interaction with her. (I apologize if my english is not so good)
Thula is so cool!! What a cat!! That's incredible. Her photo's are gorgeous. Those two are both lucky to have such great parents :)
Thank you for sharing your story and exceptional family!! Iris has a beautiful eye for color and her art is striking. I also have children on the spectrum and my youngest loved to draw maze pictures and funny monsters. My daughter would create the most imaginative "books" of stories about her stuffed bunny named Bunny. The stories were only in her mind but the pictures she drew were sweet. Of course their teens now and don't like to draw anymore! I think all kids are capable of creating beauty through art or words but it takes someone truly special to see and appreciate what's in front of them!!
Beautiful. This shows that talent comes in all shapes and sizes! Your Iris is a beautiful girl with exeptional talent.
What a beautiful story, thank you for sharing. Please, don't listen to the negative comments. My heart goes out to them, what pain they must be feeling. Again, thank you.
This article and Iris's paintings made me very happy. Frankly, I don't understand all the negative and bitter comments. Iris is in her own world, but her paintings are so vibrant and full of colours that I can't help thinking it is a happy world. And her trustworthy assistant Thula is great ! Surely she must help the little girl connect with the outside girls. Many thanks to Iris's parents for sharing their beautiful story.
This sweet girl is quite the artist! Her work is inspiring and moving. The fact that she creates such wonderful at a such an early age is fantastic. I hope and pray the best for her! She's so precious!
"dance to the oboe" is my favourite. :3 I encourage her all the way. :D If i could i would want to meet this wonder child because this is a Story that is truly Amazing.
It is very clever how cats know these things and never leave the ones they love and watch over, I wish them all a long and happy life together, God bless you all.
Realy pretty i feel like there is the 'real' world behind a veil of awsomness
I do believe with all my heart that Iris Grace & Thula are gifts from the divine universe. I thank you so very much for allowing us into your life. I will purchase this book when I am able to do so.
Iris and Thula have a bond which is shown here: https://www.buzzfeed.com/kaelintully/how-thula-the-cat-helps-a-girl-with-autism-live-life-more-fu?utm_term=.krGvyz4VwV#.reopzPGQ5Q. It just wasn't showcased in this article as her artwork was the main focus.
Iris and Thula have a bond which is shown here: https://www.buzzfeed.com/kaelintully/how-thula-the-cat-helps-a-girl-with-autism-live-life-more-fu?utm_term=.krGvyz4VwV#.reopzPGQ5Q. It just isn't shown too much here as her artwork was the main focus.
What Iris created is really beautiful but I cannot help but wonder if she has synesthesia as her art is somehow close to Melissa McCraken's paintings...
Hello I was diagnosed with autism two years ago when I was 14, I'm 16 now. Autism gave me a wonderful gift of being able to understand animals but also an artistic talent. It is as I can say been a rocky road since ever since I started school. I've been moved to a total of 7 schools, just because many don't except people like me. But out this I have 3 strong caring friends who support me through the rough seas. I think your daughters gift is beautiful, she may be the next Van Gough. Good luck for the future Ellie P.S I'm reading her book which is excellent!
Sometimes we find what works for us in all situations and keep trying and trying till we find a space of equilibrium and peace ... awesome parent you are to give your child peace.
Thank you for sharing your lovely daughter's beautiful paintings and story. What a remarkable ability she has to show her inner self to you
GO GRACE:-):-):-) GO graces mom and dad:-):-):-) Ive shared you pictures and web adress to all i know. Are You making a difference!!! O boy alot of people could learne a thing or two, Thanks for sharing bedst regards vibvib:-)
Thank you to you and your amazing family for sharing this incredible AND inspiring story. We publish The Cotrespondent quarterly magazine in Kuwait (Arabian Gulf) and we have a huge autism population here but being a Bedouin-based culture many do not share the love or respect for animals. As editor I'd love to share this story and pictures with our readers. May I know the fee for the rights to reprint this wonderful tale. My email is editor@rosette.cc I'd be happy to share with you our last autism story in The Correspondent if I can get your email. Best wishes Charlotte, Executive Editor, Kuwait
Omg! Beautiful story of a talented beautiful child and her furry gift from God.. We can do and be all things through God! This is proven!
Stunning paintings, I would love to buy one! Is there a way to be notified when she is selling again?
I believe children learn most and easiest when they follow their own interests. So I do believe this would work for every child.
How sad that the minute people see a pool in someone's house, or a boat ride, or a book production, and they lose their s**t! You wanna tell me that if you could afford all this you wouldn't use it your advantage?! Judging by your comments, you'd probably be a stuck up b***h similar to kanye west, screaming about your greatness on every corner! Even if these people are richer than you & me, THEY F*****G EARNED IT! And for your info, it doesn't take much money to make a f*****g video! You need one camera and a free software! If it will make you feel better- may be they took out a loan to print their book. There! Does it feel better now? Argh! Humans
The images of a child and cat are as always lovely; I have my doubts about those painting though. I have no direct experience of autism but I feel that those beautifully subtle colours are more likely to have been done by an adult. Maybe Iris started them and someone else finished them. Children do not (usually) have the desire for subtlety, rather they like large blobs of bold bright colours. I feel therefore that Iris may be being exploited to sell paintings.
I don't understand the role of Thula in all this. Not sure if the paintings are actually by Iris.
Don't be a downer this s a beautiful story and you are ruining it! Maybe thats why you think you are poor!
Load More Replies...Or Iris even noticing the cat? Which is not to say that it couldn't be a totally magical relationship. Yet ... as a parent of a child "on the spectrum", I can say that this is NOT exactly a typical view of autism (if there even is such a thing as "typical" in the autism world). In the popular press, those with autism are so frequently portrayed as having some incredible gift — and some certainly do, but a small percentage. Those gifted autistics naturally get all the exposure. The reality for many is a very different, and very mundane struggle, not worthy of online videos, or Facebook posts, or the attention of art collectors. Just a very, very challenging struggle.
Hi Beth, I hope you have read all you can about Iris Grace and the "therapy" cat Thula. It is a beautiful story. On a different level, I support what the parents are doing as far as facebook, videos and the like is concerned. They are showing what works for them. Perhaps it does not work for anyone else, but can be used as an idea or stepping stone. I firmly believe that sharing this story in whatever way possible can only be for the betterment of us all on this earth.
Load More Replies...I am so disappointed in the negative comments. Everyone's life and story is different, the take home message is that they are reporting a difference in this child....so why not celebrate it! That is what is most important. Thank you continuing to update us on this little help to send her family.
Autism, no matter what spectrum, affects every child and family. As much as others suffer from a daily violent tantrum or poor motor movements and facial dysmorphia, the struggles raising a child with its own world and unresponsive even to his/her parents are also real. Not everyone's situations are the same. I really hate those commenters who only think there is only one type of Autism and they feel like theirs is the only one worthy of public sympathy. I have Aspergers and no one can tell me my struggles were not real just because it they were not the same for others!
Load More Replies...What a beautiful and touching story, thank you so much for sharing with us your joy! Your daughter is very talented personality and I'm happy know she has so wonderful faithful companion like Thula! I'm sincerely happy for all your family!
There are plenty like Iris that don't have privilege to be recognized or earn some money for future living. Our world this days is all about fame.
Regardless of the story, I think the pictures have their own worth. They have great harmony, there are many layers, delicate movement and the impression of light. And although they are not the result of a long and difficult journey of the artist, like the strife of Jackson Pollock for example, or years of education and craftsmanshp like Monet's or Turner's work, I think they are really beautiful. They are pictures you can hang on your wall and look at again and again, always finding something to soothe or inspire you.
It reminded me of the Impressionists. I loved the colors and think they resemble watercolors. I have some art like this and I love it.
Load More Replies...This family seems to be, at least by some appearances, affluent and I think that's why some people here are being negative. If this were a less well-to-do family, or poor, there'd probably be a lot less negativity. Envy is an ugly beast.
Victor, I agree that some of the negative comments may be due to envy. But I also believe that it's sad that there are those without the financial means or circumstances to help their child like they'd like to. Little Iris has loving parents with the foresight and means to help her. I only wish all who needed help could achieve their full potential too.
Load More Replies...Yes. A lovely story. What a remarkable cat! And a gorgeous, adorable little girl. With phenomenal artistic ability. (Give me any one of those paintings - I would pay a lot to have those INCREDIBLY beautiful things on my wall.) And all from this very young child? Marvelous. I wish I could meet Iris, and I so, so, absolutely wish her and her family the very best. I bet that her art and her beauty will give her a really good life. It does appear that Iris's family has plenty of money to put her story out there. The skeptic in me thinks that maybe it isn't all about showing the positive side of autism? The book, the video ... very slick and well-produced. That's not necessarily saying anything. Yes, I can see why the family might do this - this little girl has such a gift, and she should be able to benefit from her talent. The cat part? It's both wonderful and also feels to me like a bit of an angle? There is not a single image of Iris and the cat actually interacting? Or Iris even not
Wow, what an incredibly bitter person you choose to be. I'm sorry that you have such low self-esteem and such negativity in your life. I'm not rich, I have 3 kids with some form of something on the spectrum and my husband died leaving me with nothing but a stack of medical bills. I still choose not to let life make me bitter!! I was also taught basic manners and common courtesy--if I can't find anything to say that's not just downright mean and nasty, then I don't say anything at all. I'm sorry for whatever has happened to make you sound like such an awful person. I hope that's not a true portrayal of who you are as a person.
Load More Replies...Well, I think it is a lovely story. Besides what Beth Howard said, that might have a good point. I don't really know how is it for other childs with autism, so I will not make any comment on that. The paintings look really interesting for me, and that gorgeous cat seems to be helping the child. I don't know what were you expecting to see on her relationship with the cat, but based on the pictures of the other post about this little girl, she looks like having some kind of interaction with her. (I apologize if my english is not so good)
Thula is so cool!! What a cat!! That's incredible. Her photo's are gorgeous. Those two are both lucky to have such great parents :)
Thank you for sharing your story and exceptional family!! Iris has a beautiful eye for color and her art is striking. I also have children on the spectrum and my youngest loved to draw maze pictures and funny monsters. My daughter would create the most imaginative "books" of stories about her stuffed bunny named Bunny. The stories were only in her mind but the pictures she drew were sweet. Of course their teens now and don't like to draw anymore! I think all kids are capable of creating beauty through art or words but it takes someone truly special to see and appreciate what's in front of them!!
Beautiful. This shows that talent comes in all shapes and sizes! Your Iris is a beautiful girl with exeptional talent.
What a beautiful story, thank you for sharing. Please, don't listen to the negative comments. My heart goes out to them, what pain they must be feeling. Again, thank you.
This article and Iris's paintings made me very happy. Frankly, I don't understand all the negative and bitter comments. Iris is in her own world, but her paintings are so vibrant and full of colours that I can't help thinking it is a happy world. And her trustworthy assistant Thula is great ! Surely she must help the little girl connect with the outside girls. Many thanks to Iris's parents for sharing their beautiful story.
This sweet girl is quite the artist! Her work is inspiring and moving. The fact that she creates such wonderful at a such an early age is fantastic. I hope and pray the best for her! She's so precious!
"dance to the oboe" is my favourite. :3 I encourage her all the way. :D If i could i would want to meet this wonder child because this is a Story that is truly Amazing.
It is very clever how cats know these things and never leave the ones they love and watch over, I wish them all a long and happy life together, God bless you all.
Realy pretty i feel like there is the 'real' world behind a veil of awsomness
I do believe with all my heart that Iris Grace & Thula are gifts from the divine universe. I thank you so very much for allowing us into your life. I will purchase this book when I am able to do so.
Iris and Thula have a bond which is shown here: https://www.buzzfeed.com/kaelintully/how-thula-the-cat-helps-a-girl-with-autism-live-life-more-fu?utm_term=.krGvyz4VwV#.reopzPGQ5Q. It just wasn't showcased in this article as her artwork was the main focus.
Iris and Thula have a bond which is shown here: https://www.buzzfeed.com/kaelintully/how-thula-the-cat-helps-a-girl-with-autism-live-life-more-fu?utm_term=.krGvyz4VwV#.reopzPGQ5Q. It just isn't shown too much here as her artwork was the main focus.
What Iris created is really beautiful but I cannot help but wonder if she has synesthesia as her art is somehow close to Melissa McCraken's paintings...
Hello I was diagnosed with autism two years ago when I was 14, I'm 16 now. Autism gave me a wonderful gift of being able to understand animals but also an artistic talent. It is as I can say been a rocky road since ever since I started school. I've been moved to a total of 7 schools, just because many don't except people like me. But out this I have 3 strong caring friends who support me through the rough seas. I think your daughters gift is beautiful, she may be the next Van Gough. Good luck for the future Ellie P.S I'm reading her book which is excellent!
Sometimes we find what works for us in all situations and keep trying and trying till we find a space of equilibrium and peace ... awesome parent you are to give your child peace.
Thank you for sharing your lovely daughter's beautiful paintings and story. What a remarkable ability she has to show her inner self to you
GO GRACE:-):-):-) GO graces mom and dad:-):-):-) Ive shared you pictures and web adress to all i know. Are You making a difference!!! O boy alot of people could learne a thing or two, Thanks for sharing bedst regards vibvib:-)
Thank you to you and your amazing family for sharing this incredible AND inspiring story. We publish The Cotrespondent quarterly magazine in Kuwait (Arabian Gulf) and we have a huge autism population here but being a Bedouin-based culture many do not share the love or respect for animals. As editor I'd love to share this story and pictures with our readers. May I know the fee for the rights to reprint this wonderful tale. My email is editor@rosette.cc I'd be happy to share with you our last autism story in The Correspondent if I can get your email. Best wishes Charlotte, Executive Editor, Kuwait
Omg! Beautiful story of a talented beautiful child and her furry gift from God.. We can do and be all things through God! This is proven!
Stunning paintings, I would love to buy one! Is there a way to be notified when she is selling again?
I believe children learn most and easiest when they follow their own interests. So I do believe this would work for every child.
How sad that the minute people see a pool in someone's house, or a boat ride, or a book production, and they lose their s**t! You wanna tell me that if you could afford all this you wouldn't use it your advantage?! Judging by your comments, you'd probably be a stuck up b***h similar to kanye west, screaming about your greatness on every corner! Even if these people are richer than you & me, THEY F*****G EARNED IT! And for your info, it doesn't take much money to make a f*****g video! You need one camera and a free software! If it will make you feel better- may be they took out a loan to print their book. There! Does it feel better now? Argh! Humans
The images of a child and cat are as always lovely; I have my doubts about those painting though. I have no direct experience of autism but I feel that those beautifully subtle colours are more likely to have been done by an adult. Maybe Iris started them and someone else finished them. Children do not (usually) have the desire for subtlety, rather they like large blobs of bold bright colours. I feel therefore that Iris may be being exploited to sell paintings.
I don't understand the role of Thula in all this. Not sure if the paintings are actually by Iris.
Don't be a downer this s a beautiful story and you are ruining it! Maybe thats why you think you are poor!
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