In the realm of human connection, we often rely on the power of words to build bridges between hearts and minds. Yet, for those who are non-speaking or minimally verbal, the unspoken language of love, understanding, and expression takes on a profound significance. This is the reality that sound artist Ruby Colley intimately understands, as her journey with her non-speaking autistic brother, Paul, has unveiled the transformative potential of communication that transcends mere words.
The Unspoken Bond
Growing up in a household filled with music, Ruby and Paul’s connection blossomed through the universal language of melody and rhythm. From the tender age of three, Ruby’s violin practice sessions became a sacred space where Paul would sit, captivated by the emotive strains that flowed from his sister’s instrument. In those wordless moments, a profound understanding emerged—one that transcended the limitations of verbal expression.
As Ruby reflects, “When you have one person who speaks and the other doesn’t, the connective conversational flow feels like it’s one-way traffic. What I really wanted to do with this project was to find that point of connection between the two of us, basically, and bring out all of these details in Paul’s communication style.”
The Language of Music
The affinity that many autistic and neurodivergent individuals have for music is well-documented, with its therapeutic benefits and ability to foster emotional expression being widely recognized. For Ruby and Paul, this shared love of music became the foundation for a unique collaboration—the creation of “Hello Halo,” a composition for vocal ensemble, electronics, and violin.
This poignant piece pays homage to the siblings’ own distinct family dialect, incorporating the words and phrases that hold special meaning for Paul. From his penchant for saying “hello” to the pitch-perfect rendition of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” he once sang in the back of the car, “Hello Halo” weaves together the threads of their shared history, creating a tapestry of love, understanding, and connection.
Illuminating the Unheard Voices
In a world where verbal neurodivergent voices are increasingly gaining prominence, it is crucial to remember those who communicate differently. Ruby and Paul’s collaboration serves as a powerful reminder that the stories and experiences of non-speaking individuals with high support needs must not be overshadowed. Their music becomes a beacon, illuminating the truth that expression and connection can flourish in myriad forms.
“It feels important to say that Paul is an enigma,” Ruby explains. “As much as a sister can know her brother through shared experiences, sibling connection, and intimate historical knowledge, the gulf of the unknown can be wide. We have learned as a family to accept this element of his unknowable mystery. It’s a surrender that is also an act of love.”
Ruby Colley
The Power of Artistic Expression
Beyond the personal significance for Ruby and Paul, “Hello Halo” stands as a testament to the vital role that artistic expression plays in the lives of disabled, autistic, and neurodivergent individuals. It is a call to action, urging society to recognize the inherent value and potential that lies within every person, regardless of their mode of communication.
As we navigate the complexities of human connection, let us remember that the most profound bonds are often forged in the spaces between words. In the silence, in the music, and in the unspoken understanding that flows between hearts, we find the essence of what it means to truly see and embrace one another. Ruby and Paul’s story is a symphony of love, reminding us that when we listen with an open heart, the melodies of the soul can resound with breathtaking clarity.
