Grandma's Story

Madison Cahil, is a savant artist who also happens to have autism. Her art and her imagination is her whole world, and she begins to create moments into the beginning of each day. Not only does she have an affinity for putting her own unique twist on fan art inspired by pop culture's tv and movie content, but she has also created dozens of her own well developed original characters. Madison draws these characters throughout their lifespan, portraying their triumphs, tribulations and interpersonal dynamics. She has a true gift for capturing their emotions and dynamic interpersonal relationships.
Madison's inspiration has been drawn from many different fine artists and the expression of emotion. She has also found an online art community, which encourages a supportive environment for artwork like hers. Her mediums include dip pens and ink, alcohol blending markers, pencil, gouache, acrylic, digital and animation.
Madison's artwork has been displayed over the last several years in various galleries and exhibitions. She is affiliated with Strokes of Genius, Inc, who encourages, supports, and empowers the artistic ABILITIES of individuals on the autism spectrum. Her work has been shown with SOG alongside other savant artists such as Stephen Wiltshire, Temple Grandin and Justin Canha. She has participated is exhibitions in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and in various areas of New York's Hudson Valley.
Currently Madison is storytelling in various ways with Tink Tank Animate, a Detroit based company. In 2019 she created her first short animation, called Grandma’s Story. Madison is working on a graphic novel with her “guru”, California native, Tawd Dorenfeld, creator of Tink Tank Animate. Tawd is an accomplished writer, director, filmmaker, artist and stop motion animator. Madison was previously a student with Exceptional Minds studio in Los Angeles, the leader in VFX and animation for students on the autism spectrum. Tawd and Madison connected through Exceptional Minds Studios, where he was an instructor, curriculum developer and program designer.
Additionally, Madison is illustrating her first children’s book titled “Clyde the Clever Wrote a Letter”. “Clyde” as she refers to the project, was written by Dutchess County local, Ed Nolan. Completion is expected in spring of 2020. Clyde’s illustrations will be entirely created with watercolor.
Through her art, she is becoming a strong self advocate. Her artist's journey is leading her to develop social skills and giving her a head start in entrepreneurial skills. She's rapidly identifying her goals, both short term and long term. She is most recently engaging in sales, trade shows, and is now developing an online store. Madison is on a mission to maintain herself as an ARTIST FIRST!