Meet the artist on a mission to change the way we see neurodivergence

In a world where differences are often seen as barriers, Dez is proving that they are, in fact, the source of the most powerful creativity. 

As the self-taught award-winning artist known as Loveartpix, Dez has turned a journey marked by struggle and self-discovery into a celebration of neurodivergence. Through his art, Dez is not just challenging stereotypes about autism and mental health; he is showing the world that being different is a source of strength, resilience and limitless creative potential.

“Art isn’t something I just do – it is who I am. It is my sanctuary, my lifeline and how I navigate a world that often feels overwhelming,” said Dez. 

Dez, or Loveartpix

Born and raised in Manchester, Dez’s life had been shaped by a series of diagnoses that offered a new lens through which to view his experiences. 

Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder in his early twenties, Dez later received an autism diagnosis in his forties—an eye-opening revelation that changed the course of his life. As he prepared for further evaluation for ADHD and PTSD therapy, Dez’s diagnoses helped clarify the unique way he interacts with the world.

“Finding out I was autistic at 41 was life-changing,” Dez acknowledged. “It wasn’t just an explanation for years of feeling different—it was a revelation. It helped give me the language to understand myself and start to embrace who I truly am”

A lifeline through art

Dez’s creative journey began in 2018, when they found himself deep in the process of receiving an autism diagnosis. At the time, the world felt like a chaotic place—one that didn’t always make sense. But art became a way for Dez to channel his feelings and make sense of his inner world. Using the Picsart app on his phone, he started experimenting with digital art, and soon realised the profound power of expression it offered.

“Art became my refuge during one of the hardest times of my life,” Dez shared. “It gave me a way to focus my turmoil, a way to transform what I was feeling into something positive. It became my escape, my focus, and my voice when words weren’t enough.”

What began as a personal outlet quickly grew into Loveartpix, a platform where Dez’s art explored the complexities of living as a neurodivergent individual. His art—rich in colour, texture, and emotion—captures the bustling energy of Manchester, explores the multifaceted nature of mental health, and celebrates the beauty that comes from embracing one’s true self.

Art as a tool for empowerment

Dez’s art is about more than personal expression—it is also a way of giving back. Over the years, he has donated pieces to several charities, raising thousands of pounds for organisations like The Maggie Oliver Foundation, NSPCC, and RMHC. But it didn’t stop there. Dez is passionate about using art to create spaces for others to connect with their own experiences, particularly those who, like Dez, may struggle with their neurotype..

“Giving back has always been at the heart of what I do,” Dez said. “It wasn’t always about creating art—it was about using it to make a difference in the world. I want to help others who might feel lost or misunderstood find something they could connect to, especially those who don’t have support”

Recognition and future aspirations

Dez’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. His work is displayed in several prominent locations across Manchester, from Oxford Road to Victoria Train Station, and even internationally at the Normandy Memorial Trust in France. 

Dez has also been nominated for notable awards, including the Rising Star/Emerging Talent category at the This is Manchester Awards and the Neurodivergent Achiever of the Year award by Genius Within. Winning his first Creative Arts and Media award in 2023 at the Autism Hero Awards with Anna Kennedy Online.

His work continues to receive recognition, but for Dez, it was not about the accolades—it’s about shining a light on the experiences of neurodivergent people.

“Every nomination, every exhibition—is about giving neurodivergent people a voice. It is about showing the world that we aren’t broken—we are simply different, and that difference is something to be celebrated in society.”

As Dez looks ahead to the next chapter, his ambitions are as bold as ever. In addition to his upcoming solo ‘A Neurodivergent Art Exhibition’, which focuses on raising awareness about autism and neurodivergence, Dez is also the main feature on a documentary that delves into his late autism diagnosis and the profound role art has played in his life – currently in editing stage by Eklectics production company.

“I wanted this exhibition to be more than just an art show,” Dez explained. “It is a chance to collaborate with other neurodivergent artists and show the world the power of creativity. Art is a powerful tool for expression and understanding, and I wanted to share that with as many people as possible.”

The exhibition, set to take place at the XYZ building in Manchester, not only features Dez’s work but also showcases collaborations he has with other neurodivergent artists—one of whom was a late diagnosed autistic poet who has written about autistic masking, and another late diagnosed autistic and ADHD lady who is a classic a violinist creating a piece which explores the challenges of socialising through music. 

With more collaborations planned for the exhibition, Loveartpix hopes to build an experience that will challenge perceptions of neurodivergence while celebrating the creativity that it can bring.

Empowering others through creativity

For Dez, the ultimate goal is to inspire others—particularly those who may be struggling with their own diagnoses but to also help break the stigma around neurodivergent conditions through greater understanding and education.

His hope is that through art, others can find the same sense of relief, purpose, and connection that he himself has found.

“Art has given me a way to express my emotions and helps me navigate daily struggles,” Dez said. “It has helped me understand myself better, and it has helped me accept the parts of me I used to hide. I want others who feel the way I did to know that they aren’t broken –  the way that I used to feel about myself”

With a growing platform and a powerful message, Dez is using his art to shatter misconceptions and show the world that creativity doesn’t’t have one definition—it comes in many forms, especially for those who see the world through a neurodivergent lens.

The journey continues

As Dez continues to break boundaries with his Loveartpix art, he remains committed to breaking the misconceptions that are often linked with being neurodivergent.

With plans for more exhibitions, collaborations, and community-building projects, Dez is on a mission to show the world that creativity is a gift—and one that he is using to help make a positive change in society.

To follow Loveartpix’s journey and explore his artwork, visit his website here or follow him on Instagram @loveartpix