Grenier explained he lost one job because he's different but, is gaining other business, because he is talented.

24-year old artist Ben Grenier has Asperger Syndrome, one of the developmental disabilities that falls under autism spectrum disorder.
Grenier explained he lost one job because he's different but, is gaining other business, because he is talented.

"I was inspired by sonic the hedgehog. "Said Grenier, referring to the bright blue cartoon character.

This started Grenier's journey as an artist.

His portfolio is filled with a variety of artwork ranging from drawings and paintings, to photographs and computer generated art.

Matt Bruback, founder and owner of Sarasota based companies the Miracle Belt, and the Sensory Belt, commissioned artwork for their logo.

"I had a friend who told me about this gentleman named Ben," Said Bruback, "Who is an amazing illustrator, and so I got an opportunity to meet him and immediately clicked with him."

Bruback didn't hesitate to give Grenier the work. "After looking at his amazing photos, we realized that everybody needs a chance." Bruback said Grenier was hired because he has a gift. "He's very articulate, and very talented with what he does with illustrations."

Grenier is now working on another art project.

"When I heard about Ben, I thought what a better person to design our new logo." Said Elena Cassella, Executive Director of Foundation for Dreams for children with special needs and chronic illnesses ages 7-17 in a camp setting. "I thought he has a really great grasp of what we're looking for." Said Cassella.

Perhaps the lesson Grenier teaches is not of tolerance but acceptance, after all it would be a very boring world if we were all the same.

Grenier explained his interpretation of autism. "A brilliant mind waiting to come out, but some people won't give that mind the time of day to show people what it can do."