Bennett’s research delves into the nuanced intersections of urban spaces, neurodivergence, and sensory perception. Driven by a commitment to authentic representation, she investigates how urban environments shape and are shaped by the sensory and embodied experiences of individuals, particularly autistic women. Through artistic practice, filmmaking, and participatory methods, she aims to reimagine cities as places of profound connection and alienation, inviting new conversations about inclusion, belonging, and accessibility.
Central to work is the belief that creative research methods, drawing, photography, and film, can reveal perspectives often overlooked by traditional approaches. Whether mapping sensory experiences through walking, projecting films onto urban surfaces, or exploring the interplay between digital and physical realms, my practice seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the diverse ways people inhabit and navigate the world.
This page offers insight into ongoing projects, collaborations, and publications, highlighting her interdisciplinary approach to rethinking urban spaces and their potential for inclusivity and connection.
Publications
Bennett, J, E. Vasilikou, C. (TBP 2025). The Neurodivergent Body in Motion: mapping the autistic sensory experience of the walkable urban space. Systematic Review. 5th International Congress of Ambiences. Lisbon.
Bennett, J, E. (2023). Auto-photography and Collaborative Drawing: How Can Autistic Researchers Foster Inclusion Through Method Selection and Development to Investigate the Design of the Built Environment? Sentio issue 4.
Bennett, J, E. (2020). ‘In Anticipation of My Loss’. The Eighth Note Fabrizio Paterlini Piano Microstories. Issuu. Pp30-31. Available at: https://issuu.com/pankowcreatives/docs/fabrizio_paterlini_-_piano_microstories_publication
Presentations
Speaker: Institute of Creativity, Communities, and Culture Winter Symposium, December.
Paper Presentation: 5th International Congress of City Ambiences Exploring the City Through Neurodivergent Sensory Experiences, Lisbon, Portugal – Co-authored with Assistant Professor Carolina Vasilikou, October.
Poster Presentation: Postgraduate Research Conference, June, University of Reading, UK.