JJ Roach of Lancaster doesn't see the world in the same way most people do. The 20-year-old artist has a keen eye for complex patterns and intricate details, which he often quickly spots in what appear to be ordinary settings. In 2020, JJ began leaning into his unique instincts to create elaborate, large-scale drawings that spare no detail. Over the last four years, JJ has continued to hone his craft by expanding his portfolio and participating in art shows and events in Lancaster County and beyond, including the Philadelphia Eagles Art Gala Charity Auction held in March.

"Green Is the Heart Inspired" was held from March 25 to April 15 at Arch Enemy Arts, a gallery located in Philadelphia's historic Old City. The art gala and auction, which benefited the Eagles Autism Foundation, featured 35 pieces created by artists from the greater Philadelphia area. JJ was among three of the featured artists who have been diagnosed with autism.

JJ's mother, Carol, first learned about the Eagles Autism Foundation in February from her other son, John. After doing some research and making a few phone calls, Carol received a response from the foundation, which invited JJ to participate in the upcoming gala by submitting a green piece of artwork. JJ had been working on a large drawing that he hadn't colored in yet, and he decided to apply the Eagles' green and white color scheme to have it included. Despite the short timeframe, which necessitated several late-night drawing sessions, JJ finished his piece "Eye of the Eagle" in time for the gala.

"It was fun and crazy all at once," JJ said of the exhibit's opening night, which he attended with Carol. "I've been to art galas and fundraisers before, but never ones with NFL stars or anything." The opening night at Arch Enemy Arts was attended by art collectors, supporters of the Eagles Autism Foundation and famous players from the Philadelphia football team. "It was beautiful, green chaos," Carol added.

After a few bids, JJ's piece sold for nearly $1,000. Sporting a glittering green suit and tie, JJ met other artists featured in the exhibit and a few of the Eagles players, as well as the team's mascot, Swoop.

As a child, JJ was diagnosed with autism and ADHD, which often made it difficult for him to concentrate in class. When he was 16 years old, JJ started working on a drawing to thank his teachers for their patience and guidance. After showing the finished piece to a friend, JJ realized he had inadvertently drawn the Fibonacci sequence, a mathematical sequence that frequently appears in nature and is associated with the golden ratio. "I mostly still rely on my instincts, mind and deeper thoughts when I'm drawing," JJ said.

"(JJ) thinks in shapes and patterns," Carol said. "I started to realize that's the way his brain works." JJ said he hopes to share his story with other people who may have autism or ADHD to let them know that anyone can excel - even if they think differently from others.

For more information, visit http://www.jjroachart.com/combatting-autism-and-adhd-through-art.