The gallery helping neurodivergent artists bridge gaps in the art world

Maya Tamang, an artist with autism, is making waves in Melbourne's art scene with her bold and colorful solo exhibition at the Jump Left gallery. Resplendent in outrageous attire, Tamang's self-titled show celebrates the glitz, glamour, and camp that she finds so appealing. Her art is heavily influenced by old Hollywood films, Elizabeth Taylor, and Liberace, as well as her grandmother's love for those films.

Kaye, a comedian and cabaret performer, was one of the subjects Tamang painted, and described her unique, chaotic eye as a primal expression of queerness.

Tamang's journey in art began as a teenager, through art therapy sessions subsidized by the NDIS. For her, painting provided an escape and a way to express her feelings that were hard to articulate. In the past, a solo show in a CBD gallery would have seemed impossible for Tamang, who had struggled with social interactions and fitting in due to her background and neurodivergence. However, her art has helped her overcome those challenges and turn her passion into a career.

Jump Left, a gallery founded in 2024, exists to support neurodivergent and disabled artists by providing resources and assistance with the business side of the art world. Sim Luttin, the gallery director, works closely with artists to help them navigate the complexities of the art industry. Tamang's exhibition at Jump Left is the result of her connection with the gallery, which has helped her turn her love for art into a professional career.