It is well-known that people on the autism spectrum have significant challenges in many areas. What is not common knowledge - are the artistic talents of many of these individuals. We created Zenaviv to help nurture and promote these strengths.

We envision a world in which:

• The “hidden” talents of these individuals are leveraged by the businesses

• The individuals live with confidence and feel part of the society. Their families are proud of them

• The common man sees people on the autism spectrum as “individuals with talents and strengths”

“Enlightenment with colors"

The name Zenaviv is derived from the Japanese word "zen"” meaning enlightenment, and the Latin word "viva" spelled in reverse, meaning spring, or colors of spring.

Our artists experience this "spring" or new season of growth and opportunity in their lives as they turn their talent and abilities into beautiful, colorful works of art that bring light and life to the clients we serve. 

I am Harish Bikmal. Our younger son Himal was diagnosed with severe, non-verbal autism at two. Doctors told us he might need to live in an institution by the time he is five.

Himal, a young adult now, lives with us at home. He takes care of his basic needs and has learned to paint. He is usually not expressive, but when he saw his art hanging at a local business, the smile on his face is priceless for us as parents! This is how the power of art has helped him. For our family, it was the spark of hope we desperately needed to forge ahead.

We started Zenaviv to give other people on the autism spectrum and their families a way to experience the kind of transformation Himal had.

Harish Bikmal

Founder & Chief Empowerment Officer

Harish has launched cutting-edge technology products that improve the lives of kids on the autism spectrum and advised leadership at large global corporations. Harish holds an MBA from Duke University and graduated from the Social Impact Strategy & Leadership program at the University of Pennsylvania.

Saket Bikmal

CHIEF EVANGELIST

Saket is the older brother and best friend of Himal. Driven by a passion to help build a future for his brother, Saket played a critical role in the start of Zenaviv. He enjoys presenting the stories of artists at events and competitions and designing and photographing products. 

Jennifer Parr

neurodivergent creative

Jen Parr is a professional artist whose passion for creating art has grown throughout her life. Her journey began as a hobby, but it has since evolved into a transformative process of self-discovery, confidence-building, and healing. Jen's artistic talents were further enhanced after her discovery of being autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic, and Dyspraxic at the age of 30. She finds art both meditative and therapeutic and specializes in developing concepts and ideas for artwork that center around powerful emotions and subjects important to her. Through her innate creativity, Jen has created a unique and inspiring body of work that showcases her talents and serves as a source of inspiration for others to discover their own creative voice.

Jean Sardoni

Community Outreach

Jean discovered Zenaviv as a means for her son Michael to realize his dream of contributing to society through his art.  She strongly believes in Zenaviv’s mission to create a space where Michael and other artists on the spectrum are celebrated for their gifts.  She looks forward to assisting with community outreach and market research.