Joshua Silver Banks passed away on January 17, 2021 at the age of 33. Josh lived a passionate life, and enjoyed many hobbies such as food, yoga, horseback riding, hiking, sailing, dance and yoga. He was also talented artist, and loved to express himself through his art.
Josh was well-known at Els for Autism as an incredible man who brought happiness and inspiration to everyone he met. Our Adult Services team supported Josh in his job at The US Sailing Center of Martin County, where he was known for his cheerful and dedicated work ethic.
Our team members got to know Josh over the years through his participation in many activities at the Foundation, from Speech & Language, Supported Employment, and Community Access, to SALSA, Yoga and Dance! Josh even displayed his beautiful artwork at Els for Autism’s very first Awe in Autism event! We will remember Josh for his humming vocalizations that he used to communicate, his passion for food, and his artistic talents.
We’d like to extend our most heartfelt sympathies to Josh’s family and thank them for allowing us to share his talents with the greater autism community. Josh leaves a beautiful legacy through his art and the joy and light he brought to so many.
The Josh Banks Memorial Scholarship Fund
In June 2021, the Foundation created the “Josh Banks Memorial Scholarship Fund” to provide financial assistance to families in need.
Donate to the Scholarship Fund
Artist Showcase
Artist Biography
Joshua discovered this talent for his use of chalk, paint, and marker when his mother packed art supplies for him while evacuating from a hurricane. He loved to rapidly cover pieces of paper with his brightly colored strokes. He was encouraged by a visiting art professor, Mari Omori to display his artwork. Josh also took several art lessons from local visual artist Ken Grey. His works have been featured in 11 group shows, as well as three solo shows. He distributed his works via prints and notecards for six years, raising money for various special needs nonprofits.
Art Available for Purchase
To celebrate Josh’s amazing life, his family would like to make Josh’s art available for donation to benefit Els for Autism.
Purchase Josh’s Notecards
Virtual Art Gallery
