A Polk County man with autism is using his talents to get the community into the holiday spirit.
Steven Storjohann is spreading holiday cheer with his paint brush. His artwork can be seen on several storefronts in downtown Lakeland.
"He has been my in-house artist, almost since the day he was born," said his mother Cindy Bauman.
Storjohann is autistic, so he let his mother do the talking. Bauman says her son has been painting since he was a little kid. She says it is a form of therapy.
"It has always been an expression for him and therapy for him, and it's really where he lives," she said. "It is his soul."
It's also a way for Storjohann to earn some money. Business owners like Lea Williams love his work and are happy to pay this talented painter to add a little holiday joy.
"It's a great opportunity for Steven," she said. "People will see what great talent he does have."
Word is spreading fast, and Storjohann has several other painting jobs lined up.
"It makes him happy," his mother said. "It makes them happy. I think everybody wins."