Yan Wong

From Memory to Masterpiece

Stephen Wiltshire's ability to recreate

Stephen Wiltshire (*1974) is an artist, architectural illustrator, and global sensation acclaimed for his extraordinary ability to recreate sprawling cityscapes entirely from memory, earning him the title "Human Camera." But what sets him apart as a role model for neurodivergent creatives?

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Stephen Wiltshire in 2016 - working on his cityscape of Mexico in full view of the public Photo by Gobierno CDMX  found on Wikimedia . 

Stephen shared his strong passion for art in an interview in 2018. He said: 'I am very satisfied for my work... and I'm gonna do it my way.'

He loves taking helicopter trips over cities, such as London, New York, Tokyo and Hong Kong, storing what he sees in his memory and later recreating the view in the form of gigantic panoramas. His exceptional observational skills and powers of perspective as demonstrated in his artwork have gained international recognition. 

Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Stephen Wiltshire's life took a unique path, defined by his extraordinary artistic talent. Despite facing challenges, Stephen's diagnosis never held him back; instead, it became the catalyst for his journey as the renowned "Human Camera" artist, capturing the essence of cities with astonishing precision. 

A role model for embracing neurodiversity

As an openly autistic artist, Stephen Wiltshire embraces his neurodiversity, celebrating it as a source of strength rather than a hindrance. Despite facing communication and social challenges, he defied societal expectations and channelled his passion for art to excel in a field where he truly shines. By embracing his unique perspective, he challenges stereotypes and fosters inclusivity, encouraging society to recognize and appreciate the diverse talents and contributions of individuals on the autism spectrum.

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Stephen Wiltshire in 2016 - Photo by Gobierno CDMX found on Wikimedia . 

Stephen Wiltshire's artistic abilities align with these characteristics commonly associated with autism. His exceptional visual memory and attention to intricate details allow him to reproduce complex architectural scenes with remarkable accuracy. This extraordinary talent is often attributed, at least in part, to his neurodivergent traits. Stephen's ability to recreate intricate cityscapes from memory and gain international acclaim demonstrates that having autism does not define one's potential for greatness. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and support, autistic individuals can overcome challenges and thrive in their chosen endeavors. 

 

References

Here are some more resources about Stephen Wiltshire, and how he serves as a positive example of autistic representation: 

Stephen Wiltshire's Website

Stephen Wiltshire's Youtube

London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. (2018, September 14). Young Disabled people invited to take part in new art exhibition. https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/articles/news/2018/09/young-disabled-people-invited-take-part-new-art-exhibition