Dive into the extraordinary life of a 17-year-old from Yorkshire who navigates the complexities of autism, learning difficulties, and a challenging start.
On the surface, his life might seem typical – college, friends, a girlfriend, and living with supportive adoptive parents. However, beneath the surface lies a journey of resilience and expression.
Despite having loving parents, his life is filled with immense challenges. From dark moments of despair to dangerous situations he couldn’t fully grasp, his experiences are intense and often overwhelming. At his lowest, he struggled with thoughts of ending his life. But hope came in an unexpected form: art.
Around a year ago, he discovered that drawing and painting allowed him to communicate feelings and thoughts he couldn’t express with words. This book is a powerful collection of his drawings, paintings, and photographs, offering an unfiltered glimpse into his world. The content is raw and graphic, reflecting his real-life struggles and emotions.
Through his art, he has connected with others, exhibiting his work and selling pieces that now adorn walls far from home. With this book, he aims to reach even more people, particularly children and young adults who struggle to express their feelings.
His heartfelt and honest book is a beacon of hope and support for those feeling alone in their struggles, showing that art can be a powerful means of expression and connection.
Join him on this journey – one drawing at a time.
Raw Emotion: The Boy Inside My Head can be purchased at the book signing for £11.99 – limited quantities will be available, but pre-purchased books can be brought to be signed.
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About the artist & author
Alex Raw is a 17 year old neurodiverse young man from Goole, who was born with FASD, Autism, learning disabilities. The years through school were difficult; Alex never felt like he fit in, being on an alternative timetable and struggling with mainstream education until the age of 16.
In October 2023, he had a mental health breakdown. His college placement was withdrawn, saying they could not meet his needs. Alex was eventually accepted into Linkage College (a specialist provision), and Alex finally felt like he fit in, and started to express his emotions through art.
Purchase Alex’s book from Amazon here