In our own words: Exploring neurodivergent+ culture, creative expression and aesthetics through the disciplines of performance and creative writing

Drawing on lived experience of creative Neurodivergent+ identity, this thesis employs, uncovers and performs a diverse range of autoethnographic modes of expression. Fundamental to this process has been the creation of a novel in experimental prose which presents a number of the author's own encounters, critiques, and developments within its writing and performance; many of these qualities can be conceptualised in terms of Neurodivergent+ experience and aesthetics. This investigation is comprised of critical commentary and creative practice but also features qualitative interviews with ND+ authors and performers. The research is informed by a range of diverse Neurodivergent+ Literary and Performative histories. The author examines these influences regarding how they have affected the processes behind her own creative practice, most notably an extract from her novel, 'The Casual Case of the Cat Caught in the Headlights'. The approach to the main body of creative work adopts practices surrounding ethnofiction and autoethnography concerning genre and methodology, whereby lived experience, research and interviews are woven into multi-disciplinary narratives; not only does the practice, element of this research, 'The Casual Case of the Cat Caught in the Headlights', draw upon this, but elements of the accompanying thesis are also experimental. A large component of this research involves analysing the work of both neurotypical (NT) and Neurodivergent+ (ND+) authors who utilize a combination of what is theorised as 'authentic' and 'crafted' Neurodivergent+ aesthetics within their writing; ultimately this thesis advocates that 'form' (in terms of grammar, syntax, content and sentiment), both written and performative, can be reflective ND+ experiences, perception, process and fascination, as well as differing states of mental health presentation. This exploration discusses how ND+ creatives might uncover and utilize several more intrinsic, personalized, original and multi-modal methods towards creation. This research seeks to foster new appreciations surrounding how language and communication can be presented and formatted, particularly in creative settings. In doing this it hopes to challenge hierarchies surrounding 'standardized' registers, potentially paving the way for new writing and performance that will encompasses fresh appreciations towards diversity. This research pursues and uncovers several innovative methodologies within Performance and Creative Practice by focusing upon ND+ first-person narration, both written and performative. It aims to continue developing the notion of Neurodivergent+ Culture within the Arts, while seeking to bridge gaps of understanding and empathy between ND+ and NT individuals/communities. What is discussed in this research is not in any way meant to limit ND+ individuals, rather, as 'In Our Own Words' suggests, it seeks to analyse and discuss several ND+ creative practices and practitioners regarding their ethos, intention, and philosophy. This research also raises questions surrounding Neurodivergence and cultural appropriations, alongside theories to why authentic Neurodivergent+ voices may have struggled to reach mainstream industry and publishing expectations, making suggestions as to how both could be addressed. The researcher hopes that this body of work will foster more multi-faceted conversations surrounding representation and authenticity, paving the way for ND+ creatives and academics to feel more confident not just in being 'out', but also in 'unmasking', and having the confidence to 'relearn' and experiment with perhaps more intrinsic ways to communicate and creatively express identity; thusly leading to increased occurrence and appreciation of Neurodivergent+ Culture and Aesthetics within the arts and creative practice.