As part of I AM’s mission to celebrate autism with the broader world, we’re happy to present the latest in a series of our ’10 questions with…’ series, featuring London-based neurodivergent creative and the founder of Nooh Studio Helena Traill.
1. Your new solo exhibition, ‘en plein air’, showcases your Impressionist painting style. Could you tell us how painting outdoors (en plein air) specifically helps you focus and manage the unique challenges of neurodivergence?
My painting is both challenging and empowering. Painting outdoors, or ‘en plein air’, helps me manage neurodivergent challenges by slowing my racing thoughts. Immersed in nature, I find clarity through colour and rhythm, allowing me to focus and connect deeply with my surroundings.
Immersed in nature, I find clarity through colour and rhythm.
2. You’ve mentioned that painting became a key part of how you navigate your neurodivergent mind. In what ways does creating art serve as both a therapeutic outlet and a tool for problem-solving?
Painting keeps my mind busy but at a relaxed pace. Without it, I can’t sit still or unwind like others do.
3. Your father’s terminal diagnosis played a significant role in your journey, as noted in The Brain Tumour Charity blog post. How did this life experience shape your creative path and influence the themes you explore in your art and design work?
Growing up with my dad’s illness (he had two brain tumours for 24 years and died last in 2024), I faced the reality of life and death head-on. This taught me to take risks and seize opportunities in my art and design work. It pushed me to explore themes of resilience and the fleeting nature of life, using my creativity to process and express these emotions.
4. You founded Nooh Studio and have built a successful design agency. What were some of the biggest hurdles you faced as a neurodivergent entrepreneur, and how did you leverage your neurodiversity to your advantage?
Starting Nooh Studio has been an incredible journey, but as a neurodivergent entrepreneur, I’ve faced some unique challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been working in teams and explaining my way of working, especially when I need to step back due to feeling overwhelmed. To tackle this, I teamed up with Wired Differently and an ND coach for some ‘Business Untangling’. Together, we created a clear company culture, a Neurodiversity Policy, and a detailed onboarding process. This helps new team members understand how our creative minds work. Interestingly, it’s estimated that between 20% and 50% of those working in creative industries are neurodiverse, compared to around 15% of the UK population at large. Embracing neurodiversity isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it’s about recognising and leveraging the unique strengths we bring to the table.
5. In your talk on ‘Neurodivergent Creativity’ you highlight the connection between creativity and neurodiversity. Could you share an example of how your neurodivergent perspective led to an innovative solution or approach in your design projects?
As a neurodivergent creative, I often think outside the box and ask questions others might not consider. This unique perspective has led me to develop innovative solutions in my design projects. For instance, balancing the operational aspects of building a business with my creative pursuits has allowed me to approach challenges with a fresh and holistic mindset. This dual focus enables me to blend practical problem-solving with artistic expression, resulting in distinctive and effective design outcomes.
I faced the reality of life and death head-on.
6. As a Central Saint Martins graduate, how did your time at the institution influence your approach to branding, fine art, and graphic design, particularly in light of your neurodivergent thinking?
My time at Central Saint Martins was challenging but transformative. The experience taught me how to think creatively rather than just focusing on technical skills. I enjoy working on a variety of projects, which sometimes confuses people because I don’t fit into a single category. However, being a visionary thinker and embracing mistakes have significantly advanced my career.
7. You’ve written a book about cancer and created the blog ‘The Ideas Machine.’ How do writing and blogging fit into your creative process, and what role do these mediums play in raising awareness about topics close to your heart?
Writing and blogging are essential parts of my creative journey. They help me process my thoughts and share my experiences. My blog, The Ideas Machine, brings all my ideas together, offering weekly insights on design, storytelling, and social impact. It’s a space where I can connect with others and inspire creative action. Similarly, my book, 100 Stories of Cancer, compiles personal stories to promote open discussions about cancer. Through these platforms, I aim to raise awareness and foster a sense of community around topics close to my heart.
8. ‘100 Stories’ is another of your notable projects. Could you tell us about the inspiration behind it and how it aligns with your mission to share diverse perspectives and create inclusive designs?
I created 100 Stories to share real experiences with cancer, aiming to make it easier for people to talk about it. Storytelling helps us connect with diverse perspectives, and this project brings those voices together. By sharing these stories, I hope to promote open discussions and inclusive designs that reflect everyone’s experiences.
Embracing neurodiversity isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it’s about recognising and leveraging the unique strengths we bring to the table.
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9. Designing for neurodiversity is a key focus for you. What advice would you give to fellow designers and business owners looking to make their products, services, and workplaces more accessible and inclusive for all types of thinkers?
I have found open communication is key. Collaborate closely with like-minded businesses and thinkers. As a solo entrepreneur, I’ve built strong relationships with other agencies that support me.
10. Balancing painting, branding, and entrepreneurship can be challenging. How do you manage your schedule, maintain your mental well-being, and stay motivated across such a wide range of creative pursuits – especially with the added complexities of neurodiversity?
Balancing painting, branding, and running a business is tough, especially with my neurodivergent mind. I try my best, but it’s not always easy. The Access to Work grant provides me with a support worker who helps me question and organize my tasks. Living with both ADHD and ASD means I have to manage my constant drive to do things and the burnout that often follows. My husband, who is also neurodivergent, is a crucial support; we help each other stay on track and this is a very important relationship for me.
If you would like to see more of Helena’s work, you can check it out now on her Website , Instagram , Facebook , and Linkedin .
If you or someone you know is interested in taking part in I AM Profiles, please drop us an email at enquiries@i-am-autism.org.uk
