Islands of Brilliance
A Creative Community for Neurodivergent Young Adults
The Fellowship
The Fellowship brings neurodivergent teens and young adults together for arts-based activities, connection, and growth — right here in the Chippewa Valley.
About
The Fellowship is a welcoming space for neurodivergent teens and young adults (ages 16 to early 30s) to:
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Explore creative arts-based projects
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Engage in guided group discussions
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Build confidence, independence, and friendships in a judgment-free setting
Whether participants join for fun, connection, or personal development — they’ll find a place where they belong.
The Fellowship is made possible through a collaboration between Pablo Center and Islands of Brilliance as part of a statewide initiative supporting young people with disabilities in transitioning from school to life beyond structured academic systems.
About Islands of Brilliance
Islands of Brilliance (IOB) is an award-winning learning experience created specifically for children and young adults on the autism spectrum.
Unlike traditional programs, IOB doesn’t ask students to conform — it designs the environment around their strengths and needs.
What Participants Experience
- Hands-On, Project-Based Learning rooted in art, design, and STEAM
- Communication & Collaboration Skills developed through shared projects
- Social & Emotional Growth in a safe, supported setting
- A Place to Be Seen & Celebrated for their unique creativity
Past activities:
The Fellowship Gallery Show
Pablo Center, Laurie Bieze Gallery, April 1st-May 16th, 2025
The exhibition showcased the creative talents and unique perspectives of neurodivergent teens and young adults who were gathering for arts-based activities and guided discussions through the Fellowship program. The artists were participants in IOB's Eau Claire Fellowship program. Visitors experienced a diverse collection of artwork that highlighted the unique abilities and creative vision of the participants, created with the guidance of two of IOB’s Brilliant Fellows — August Carlson and Hannah Sallmann.
Hometown Radio Podcast
Hannah Sallman and August Carlson are workshop coordinators for the Islands of Brillance and tell us about this gallery exhibition and the organization as whole.
