Sarah’s son, Ping Lian, is an extraordinary artist who is also Autistic. He is recognised by experts in the field as a prodigious savant - of which there are fewer than a hundred in the world today. Savants are people who possess one or more areas of expertise, ability, or brilliance that are in contrast with their overall limitations. When he was a child, Sarah encouraged Ping Lian to trace and colour to strengthen his fine motor skills. Repetition led to obsession, ultimately developing his exceptional art talent. Recognising his potential, Sarah started to sell his intricate drawings and paintings, and word quickly spread around the world. His beautiful art serves as a source of satisfaction, income, development and growth for him, helping to minimize whatever limitations that might spring from his disabilities. And right beside him is Sarah – dedicated, determined and perpetually optimistic about his future. His artwork has been showcased in galleries, and his story documented in books and films. His success is a tribute to Sarah’s love and her belief in his abilities.
http://www.pinglian.com/
http://therockspopup.tumblr.com/
Photographer: Diane Macdonald
Location: The Rocks, Sydney