Two local charities will receive a little help from a British celebrity artist who has autism, tonight.

The Bermuda National Gallery (BNG) and Bermuda Autism Support & Education (BASE) will be hosting an evening with London artist Stephen Wiltshire, MBE tonight at 6.30 p.m.

Mr. Wiltshire is an acclaimed artist best known for his architectural renderings of iconic buildings— works of art that may have been surveyed for a short period of time and then translated into minute detail and extreme accuracy.

His artwork has appeared in countless galleries, and he has his own gallery in London called the Stephen Wiltshire Gallery.

He has also appeared on many television programmes including a recent episode of 60 Minutes.

Yesterday, before BNG patrons, Mr. Wiltshire drew the skyline of the City of Hamilton as seen from Beau Rivage Restaurant in Paget.

Tonight, some of his artwork will be auctioned off with the money split between BNG and BASE.

Tickets to the special evening will include a cocktail reception, live music, an art auction, and an opportunity to meet Mr. Wiltshire, as well as share in a unique charitable opportunity.

Director of the BNG, Lisa Howie said that although Mr. Wiltshire was autistic, he should be defined by his "exceptional talent".

"The BNG is working more and more toward greater social integration and broader education outreach," said Ms Howie. "This includes hosting events that work in collaboration with social service agencies, such as BASE."

Mr. Wiltshire was invited to Bermuda by the BNG's chairman, Gary L. Phillips, OBE.

"Mr. Wiltshire is an embodiment of a philosophical branch of the BNG: simply put — art heals," said Ms Howie. "Research tells us that art has therapeutic value, and many in the field argue that art has the potential to bridge social gaps, provide moments of respite, and provide access to learning unmatched by the book.

"It is into this thinking that Mr. Phillips's invitation fits. Mr. Wiltshire is self-defined as an artist; that he is autistic is irrelevant."

Mr. Phillips said art had the potential to cross boundaries.

"We have invited Mr. Wiltshire because he is an exceptional artistic talent with unique needs, needs that are shared by many in our community," he said.

"This collaborative event allows for the BNG to reach out to the community in an unprecedented manner, and communicate that art heals — and that we wish to be a part of that larger social project."

Tickets are $200 each. Please contact director@bng.bm or the Gallery 295-9428 to reserve tickets.

Telephone, 295-9428 for more information.

• See Wednesday's Lifestyle section for a full interview with Mr. Wiltshire's family.