The Frank art gallery is celebrating Autism Awareness month in April with a featured exhibition, art market and free lecture.

As part of The Frank’s new exhibition “Florida Is…,” the Third Space Gallery, located on the second floor, will feature an exhibition by Artists with Autism, a non-profit networking group that promotes micro-enterprise, opportunities and independence among aspiring artists on the autism spectrum. Artists with Autism will host an art market in The Frank’s learning space during the Florida Is… opening reception on March 29 from 6 to 9 p.m.

The Frank also will host “Focus on Art Abilities: Careers for Individuals with Autism,” a free lecture on Saturday, April 21 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. featuring guest lecturer Cynthia Drucker, founder of Artists with Autism. During the lecture, Drucker will present alternative employment opportunities in the arts for those with autism. Drawing from her experience as the founder of the organization, she will explain how art heals the brain and how artists with autism can gain independence by creating a successful art business of their own.

“The Frank’s mission is to create a space showcasing multi-disciplinary exhibitions that foster connections and leverage the power of the arts to create a space of inclusion,” said Joshua Carden, chief curator of The Frank. “We are excited to feature work by Artists with Autism in our new “Florida Is…” exhibition as well as have Cynthia share her story and the amazing work that she does for the community.”

The Frank is located in the Charles F. Dodge City Center in Pembroke Pines at 601 City Center Way. Admission to The Frank is free. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about The Frank, call 954.392.2120, email thefrank@ppines.com or visit thefrankgallery.org. Follow The Frank on Facebook and Instagram at The Frank Pembroke Pines.