Art, Autism, and New Forms of Humanity in Beijing

Until October, the Inside-Out Art Museum in Beijing presents Life Rehearsals, an exhibition that explores autism through the lenses of art, cinema, and collective memory. The show brings together works by neurodivergent artists and contributions from China, Japan, South Korea, the Netherlands, and beyond, reflecting on the daily experiences of individuals with mental disabilities and the emotional landscapes of their caregivers. At its core lies a pressing question: what do we consider “normal”?
The exhibition also traces the history of autism diagnosis and representation throughout the 20th century, offering a critical perspective on the social conventions that shape our understanding of identity. For years, the Inside-Out Art Museum has actively supported neurodivergent communities through exhibitions, workshops, and public events. Deeply engaged with the social sphere, the museum has become a key space for those who see art as a tool for listening, inclusion, and transformation.