Art Across the Spectrum is a one-of-a-kind event presented by the Capri Theatre, The Center for Family Development and The Fly Arts Center.
Art Across the Spectrum is a unique evening of art and awareness presented by The Capri Theatre, The Center for Family Development and The Fly Arts Center.
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Art Across the Spectrum is designed to help generate awareness about autism spectrum disorder and to highlight the special challenges faced by those living with autism and their families. In addition, the event hopes to showcase the diverse creative talents of local artists on the autism spectrum.
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See "The Unbreakable Boy" film at The Capri Theatre during a special screening on April 11th. Then join us for an evening of art, refreshments, music and celebration at The Fly Arts Center for the Art Across the Spectrum VIP Exhibition Opening Reception. Featuring art from the local autism community, this event focuses on the creative talents of local artists on the autism spectrum or with another neurodivergent condition, such as ADHD, dyslexia, etc, to create an evening filled with color and joy. This event benefits "Autism Connections" in Bedford County, TN.
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JOIN US FRIDAY, APRIL 11TH IN HISTORIC UPTOWN SHELBYVILLE, TN
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SEE THE FILM AT THE CAPRI AT 4PM
Attend a special screening of “The Unbreakable Boy” at the Capri Theatre in Shelbyville, TN on Friday, April 11th at 4 pm. The purchase of your ticket includes access to the exclusive after screening event at The Fly Arts Center. Also, if you see the film at the Capri any time beginning on Friday, February 28th, your ticket will grant you access to the after screening event.
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VIEW THE ART AT AN EXCLUSIVE AFTER EVENT AT THE FLY AT 6PM
Then head over to The Fly Arts Center at 6 pm for a VIP reception and an art exhibition, where you will be able to view art made by local Bedford County and surrounding area artists, bid on your favorite pieces in a silent auction and meet the artists. This exhibition aims to provide a better understanding of autism and neurodivergence from the personal perspectives of each artist. Just show your ticket from the Capri for "The Unbreakable Boy" and you're in!
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CALL FOR ART FROM NEURODIVERGENT ARTISTS
We’re currently accepting submissions for art made by artists on the autism spectrum or who are neurodivergent to be displayed during the Art Across the Spectrum exhibition. All types of art are welcome — paintings, drawings, photographs, pottery or anything made by hand. Pieces can be preexisting works or newly created for display in this exhibition. There is no cost to submit. The deadline for submission is 3/30/25.
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FREE CLASSES/WORK SESSIONS FOR ARTISTS PLANNING TO SUBMIT ART
In addition, The Fly will be offering free classes/work sessions throughout the month of March to assist in the creation of art submissions for this event. These classes/work sessions are only open to artists on the autism spectrum/neurodivergent and are intended to help them create pieces to submit for display at the special Art Across the Spectrum exhibition. We're offering flexible options of both structured classes and open, lightly guided creative work sessions to meet the needs of the artists.
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CLASS/WORK SESSION DATES AVAILABLE
Friday, March 7th | 6:30pm to 8:30pm - Structured Painting Class With Instructor Crystal O'Neal (Acrylic Painting on Canvas)
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Thursday, March 27th | 6pm to 8pm - Structured Drawing Class With Instructor Santha Koonce
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Wednesdays in March | 6pm to 8pm - Open Work Sessions With Provided Supplies and Creative Project Recommendations
(We're currently seeking volunteers to help with these sessions. Sign up now >)
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FAQS
Who is presenting the Art Across the Spectrum event?
The Capri Theatre, The Center for Family Development and The Fly Arts Center have partnered to bring this special event to our local community.
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What is the purpose of the event?
Art Across the Spectrum is designed to help generate awareness about autism spectrum disorder and to highlight the special challenges faced by those living with autism and their families. In addition, the event hopes to showcase the diverse creative talents of local artists on the autism spectrum.
What film is being screened at The Capri and what is it about?
The film, "The Unbreakable Boy," is a 2025 film directed and written by Jon Gunn. It is rated PG, parental discretion is advised.
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When Scott and Teresa learn that their son, Austin, is autistic and has brittle bone disease, they initially worry about his future. However, with Scott's growing faith and Austin's incredible spirit, they become unbreakable as they find joy, gratitude and courage in the most trying times.
It is based on the book "The Unbreakable Boy: A Father's Fear, a Son's Courage, and a Story of Unconditional Love", authored by Scott Michael LeRette and Susy Flory, which is based on a true story. The film stars Zachary Levi in the lead role, alongside Meghann Fahy, Jacob Laval, Drew Powell, Gavin Warren and Patricia Heaton.
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Watch the Trailer for "The Unbreakable Boy" Now >
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Who may submit work for the Art Across the Spectrum event?
Artists of all ages who are on the autism spectrum or are neurodivergent in the Shelbyville/Bedford County area or surrounding area may submit art to be displayed in the event's special art exhibition.
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What type of art will be showcased in the art exhibition?
All types of art are welcome — paintings, drawings, photographs, pottery or anything made by hand.
Is there any class or work session support to help artists create art for this event?
Yes! The Fly Arts Center will host free art classes and creative work sessions throughout the month of March to help artists create art to submit for this event. Talented and experienced instructors will be on hand to help artists with their creative projects.
We're offering flexible options of both structured classes and lightly guided creative work sessions to meet the needs of the artists. Art supplies and suggested projects will be available to participating artists. ​
These classes/work sessions are only open to artists on the autism spectrum and require online registration. Space is limited and first come, first served.
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Can I come to the Art Across the Spectrum after event if I did not see the film at The Capri?
You must have purchased a ticket to "The Unbreakable Boy" from The Capri Theatre to attend the after event at The Fly.
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How long will the art from this exhibition be on display at The Fly Arts Center?
In recognition of Autism Awareness Month, the art exhibition will remain on display at The Fly Art Gallery throughout the month of April.
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How will the art auction work?
You may bid on pieces listed for sale through a silent auction during the Art Across the Spectrum after event at The Fly Arts Center. The highest bidder will be notified and sent an invoice for their purchase. The art will remain on display throughout the month of April and can be picked up beginning on Thursday, May 1st.
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How can I help?
We're currently accepting for in kind donations of art supplies and monetary donations. We're also looking for volunteers to help with the event.
Sign Up to Help With Open Creative Work Sessions on Wednesdays in March >
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Who do I contact about this event?
Patrick Curtis, The Capri Theatre | Jody Barnes-Turner, The Fly Arts Center | Aaron White, The Center for Family Development
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