Autism and culture: in Rome an exhibition showing vintage cars through

Autism and culture: in Rome an exhibition showing vintage cars through a young artist’s eyes

Ahead of World Autism Awareness Day, the Automobile Club d’Italia opened in Rome the exhibition “Art, passion and inclusion – The harmony of vintage cars seen with special eyes”. Supported by the Parliamentary Intergroup for Disabilities, the show pairs a young artist’s work with historical pieces by renowned Modena coachbuilders.

The main contributor is 21-year-old Matteo Silvestri, a Milan-born artist with autism and a graduate of the Boccioni Art High School. His drawings, influenced by a passion for 1970s and 1980s cars and aided by an exceptional photographic memory, render precise details and revive the character of each vehicle.

The exhibition aims to promote inclusion and highlight the talents of people with disabilities. Matteo’s works are displayed alongside “The Sculptors of Speed”, featuring pieces by coachbuilders such as Giancarlo Guerra and Sergio Scaglietti.

• Where: Automobile Club d’Italia, Galleria Caracciolo (Via Marsala 8), Rome
• When: on view throughout April
• Why: to foster inclusive cultural dialogue and celebrate diverse artistic talents

The curatorial approach underlines how art can transcend barriers and offer fresh perspectives: Matteo’s works not only document a personal passion but encourage audiences to see disability as a source of creativity. Organisers hope the event will inspire further inclusive cultural projects across Italy.