Autistic UAE teen's artwork chosen for Peru and Ras Al Khaimah exhibitions

Tatum Lafuente, a 14-year-old Grade 9 student who is on the autism spectrum, has had his artwork selected for the Peru Bienal 2026 in Lima in December and the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival in January next year. His mother, Maggie, said the family has found the news an emotional milestone, as drawings she has kept over the years are now reaching a wider audience. Tatum was diagnosed at the age of three and has long been drawn to cities, skyscrapers, cars, LEGO and drawing. The family has lived in the UAE since 2006 and moved from Dubai to Al Ain in 2025, a change Maggie said brought a slower pace of life. At seven, Tatum told his mother he wanted to become a CEO, and the family says they celebrate small everyday achievements as much as major milestones.