Helen Ralli

Helen Ralli is the founder of Hart Club, a community arts organization established in 2018 that focuses on championing neurodiversity within the arts. The organization aims to provide a platform for artists who think, communicate, and create differently, thereby increasing their visibility and promoting inclusivity in the art world.124

Ralli's journey towards founding Hart Club began in 2012 when she worked with the late artist Daniel Johnston, which profoundly influenced her perspective on art. In 2017, while curating an exhibition titled "Great Minds Think Different," she encountered the Camberwell Incredibles, a group of learning-diverse adults. This experience highlighted the lack of public-facing opportunities for such artists and inspired her to create Hart Club as a dedicated space for their work.145

Under Ralli's leadership, Hart Club has hosted various exhibitions and collaborative projects, focusing on nurturing artistic talent and fostering community engagement. The organization operates on a model that emphasizes collaboration and aims to challenge societal norms regarding disability and creativity.235 Although Hart Club closed its physical gallery space in April 2023 due to rising costs, it continues to advocate for neurodiverse artists and seeks new avenues for collaboration and support.35

Ralli holds a degree from the University of the Arts London and has built a network of over 500 connections on LinkedIn, where she shares updates about Hart Club's initiatives and exhibitions.67