Fallbrook Artist with Autism Named Inaugural Artist-in-Residence for Mainly Mozart Festival

San Diego, CA — Acclaimed Fallbrook-based artist and autism advocate Joel Anderson has been named the first-ever Artist-in-Residence for the 2025 Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival, the organization announced this week in partnership with The Art of Autism.

Diagnosed with autism at age three, Anderson has become an internationally recognized visual artist, with his vibrant, music-inspired work exhibited in countries including Japan, China, Australia, and Peru. As an author, speaker, and subject of a documentary film, Anderson has also earned acclaim as a passionate voice for autism awareness and inclusion.

His residency marks the launch of Mainly Mozart’s new Artist-in-Residence program, designed to highlight San Diego artists whose work bridges visual art and music. “Joel’s remarkable talent and dedication to both art and autism advocacy exemplify the spirit of creativity and inclusion at the heart of our festival,” said Mainly Mozart Founding CEO Nancy Laturno.

Anderson’s artwork will be showcased June 18–28 at the festival’s primary venues—The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center and UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater—and at a June 12 kickoff exhibit at Union Hall Gallery in Golden Hill. His composer portraits will also appear on festival merchandise, with proceeds supporting the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra and The Art of Autism. 

For information on the festival, visit www.mainlymozart.org. For information on Joel Anderson, visit www.joelsvisionarts.com.