At the Downtown Chattanooga Public Library, just past the shelves of books and study tables, a burst of color draws the eye. It’s an exhibit titled “Fun on the Spectrum,” and it’s unlike anything the library has ever hosted.
Curated by artists Alex Scoggins and Angel Pellegrino, in partnership with the Hart Gallery and library specialist Ali Banks, the exhibit showcases the creative voices of artists on the autism spectrum. But beyond its vibrant images and playful themes, “Fun on the Spectrum” is a story of collaboration and inclusion.
A creative collaboration
At the heart of the exhibit are siblings Scoggins and Pellegrino, longtime library patrons and contributors at the Hart Gallery, a nonprofit space that supports artists experiencing homelessness, disability, or other barriers to artistic opportunities. Their work – which ranges from colorful cats to mischievous dogs – now adorns the walls of the library’s first floor.
“This show came about so organically,” says Banks, who’s served at the library for over 20 years. “Alex and Angel had been using our Fourth Floor Makerspace to create these amazing digital pieces. I was blown away when I saw them.”
The library was eager to refresh its first-floor exhibit space, which had remained unchanged since before the pandemic. When Banks saw the siblings’ work, she knew she’d found the perfect opportunity. With support from the Hart Gallery and a shoestring budget, “Fun on the Spectrum” was born.
“We wanted something fun,” Banks says. “And this really is.”
Art as connection
Pellegrino describes the Hart Gallery as the highlight of his week. “It means a lot to us to be able to go there,” he says. “I’m on disability, and it gives me something positive to do. It’s a creative outlet and a way to explore who I am.”
Pellegrino and his twin brother – both autistic trans men – collaborate on nearly every piece. “Alex does the drawing – he has this incredible talent – and I do the coloring,” he explains. “We use Procreate on an iPad, and we take inspiration from memes or other things that make us laugh.”
Their process is lighthearted, but the impact is meaningful. “I was struggling with my mental health when Alex introduced me to the Hart Gallery,” Pellegrino shares. “It gave me purpose. Then he started coming with me, and we’ve been doing art together ever since.”
Among their contributions to the exhibit is a modern reinterpretation of a famous Van Gogh self-portrait in which the legendary artist sports purple hair and shares the canvas with a pesky cat.
Another piece shows miniature stormtroopers from “Star Wars” hiding from a predatory mouser, while in a third, a mischievous feline looks up sheepishly after knocking over a houseplant.
“We love cats,” Pellegrino says. “We can’t have one, though, because Alex has a parrot.”
“That could end badly for the parrot,” Alex grins.
More than just a gallery
“Fun on the Spectrum” isn’t just an art show – it’s also an interactive experience. On a table near the exhibit, a large poster consisting of black-and-white line art invites visitors to grab some markers and bring the artwork to life. “People love to sit and color,” says Banks. “I’m always amazed at what comes out of those moments.”
The exhibit also sends a broader message: that the library is a space for everyone – regardless of age, ability or background. “We’re here for our patrons,” Banks adds. “We love getting to know them. We love helping them discover something new – whether it’s a book, a skill or even a new community.”
Scoggins was the one who suggested including a coloring activity. That kind of collaboration is exactly what the library aims to encourage, Banks says. “We’re always looking for ways to partner with different communities – and this one came together so beautifully.”
A broader mission
Madi Blackburn, gallery attendant and art educator at the Hart Gallery, sees the exhibit as a reflection of the organization’s broader mission.
“It’s called ‘Fun on the Spectrum’ because all the artists are on the autism spectrum,” she explains. “They wanted it to be playful and full of color.”
But there’s a deeper purpose, too. “I hope people walk away with a new understanding of autism,” Blackburn says. “It’s often misperceived. There’s so much beauty in our differences, and so much creativity in how we express them.”
What’s next
Scoggins and Pellegrino are currently working on a new project funded by a diversity grant from ArtsBuild. But for now, they’re focused on the joy of seeing their work up on the walls of the library – a place that has long been a second home.
“We like making things that make people smile,” Alex says. “A lot of our art is silly on purpose. That’s part of the fun.”
“Fun on the Spectrum” will remain on display at the Downtown Chattanooga Library through Aug. 30. Prints of the featured artwork are available for purchase through the Hart Gallery.