A TALENT UNCOVERED
23 years ago in Australia, Judy was told that her three-year-old son, Tim Smart, would never talk, go to school or feel real love for her. His doctor had told her that Tim was autistic and should be put in a special school. But Judy knew deep in her heart that her son was intelligent and loving.
Being autistic, Tim was unable to interact or communicate with others easily. Ordinary day-to-day activities such as going to another child's birthday party would make him very nervous. He would scream for an hour before they had to leave.
Tim Smart and his mother enjoy a day out at the park. AFP PHOTO / WILLIAM WEST
One day, when Judy drew him a picture for the first time, Tim grabbed her hand to make her keep drawing. For Judy, it was a big step, for that was the first time that Tim had interacted with her and tried to tell her something. He liked to watch his mother draw - watching his mother draw was the only thing that could get his attention.
Slowly, Tim started to draw. And it became clear that he was a talented artist. Spurred on by his love for superheroes such as Batman, Spiderman, Superman and the X-Men, he created his own superhero cartoon character, the cheeky Laser Beak Man.
When he was 11, Tim made a birthday card for a friend and drew a picture of Laser Beak Man on the front, saying:
Have a filthy, disgusting birthday.
Luckily for Tim, his card was seen by someone who worked in the disability arts industry. Impressed by Tim's talent, he encouraged Tim to continue making cards with Laser Beak Man as the cartoon character.
Artist Tim Smart wears a T-shirt with his cartoon superhero Laser Beak Man. AFP PHOTO / WILLIAM WEST
Tim's art work instantly won the hearts of many people. When he was 16, he was selected for the Very Special Arts Festival in Washington, USA, for people with disabilities. A music festival was even held in his honour. Tim now has many fans all around the world. Laser Beak Man has also inspired a cartoon series that is screened by the Cartoon Network and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
For mum Judy, one of the great things about Tim's art is that it has shown that people are now more accepting of those with disabilities. But more importantly, her son is happy. Just like Tim says, "Drawing makes me really happy."
Featured image: Artist Tim Smart spends a day at the park with his mum, Judy. AFP PHOTO / WILLIAM WEST
