Washington Autism Alliance & Advocacy (WAAA) would like to honor local Artist, Cory Kanakis, who has graciously donated one of his pieces of artwork to our organization.

Cory, who has dealt with Asperger’s syndrome himself all of his life wanted to create a symbolic piece of art that really conveyed the source of strength that advocates provide for the autism community. He says that he is very interested in producing symbolic and iconic works of that that represent the struggles of autism.

Cory’s mother and WAAA member says that he has always been drawing ever since he was little, but he didn’t really get into it professionally until 2005. In high school, he was into bodybuilding but when he realized that most body builders in the professional circles obtained their muscles by illegal methods, he knew he didn’t want to compromise his integrity that way. He decided to walk away from it and pursue something else. He knew he wanted to do something creative with his life. His brother introduced him to 3D animation software “Maya” and from there he said he became “addicted to drawing.” He began experimenting with Photo shop, environmental art, live painting, and 3D illustration.

He graduated from the Art Institute of Seattle with a bachelor’s degree in Art and is now working on his Master’s degree in Illustration. He says that the program is very challenging and he often has to put in at least 10-15 hours of work into his projects.  He enjoys being able to learn from highly qualified teachers and professional artists, but the field can be very critical and disheartening at times. While Cory has had to learn to depend and rely on himself when it comes to his art, he has also found support in mentors who help him along the way as well. His advisor during his time as an undergrad was one of his mentors who really supported him and gave him helpful advice.

Cory is thankful for his art, as it has allowed him to connect more to people. It has also helped him find an outlet and a release for his emotions. His art allows him to deal with his frustrations. “One thing that people don’t realize is that it is a very critical field. On the outside it looks easy, but it is very difficult.” Though the road has been challenging for Cory, he is thankful for it. The obstacles that he faced have helped him appreciate his gifts even more.

Cory’s mother is also thankful for his art as it allows him to express himself more. She says that it has brought the family together and she is extremely proud of him. She always does her best to encourage Cory and reminds him what he is doing is important: “We have to have art in our society. Without art, where would our culture be?”

Cory’s unique experiences have definitely contributed to the culture of our world and are opening people’s eyes to the gifts of the autism community.