Understanding Repetitive Behaviours in Autism

Using markers, scissors, fidget spinners and other “stim” tools, participants in this Blackwood Gallery workshop intently trace and collage patterns on paper. They are exploring “stimming” – self-stimulatory behaviours often associated with neurodivergence.

Led by filmmaker Steven Eastwood and artists from the U.K.’s Neurocultures Collective – the “Co-creation as Stimming” session was part of the gallery’s three-day Oughtism conference on neurodivergent art, culture, and experience in early February.

Expressed through repetitive physical movements, stimming can help filter sensory input to ease anxiety or generate delight.

While everyone stims to some degree, the behaviour is more common – and often more visible – among autistic people, who may process sensory information differently. 

Funded by U of T Mississauga and the Jackman Humanities Institute, the Oughtism conference featured interdisciplinary talks on neurodiversity, disability and creative practice. It was part of the Blackwood Gallery’s year-long exploration of neurodivergent experiences.