Playing with Colour: A Case Study of Deduako Life Community Special Vocational School and the Garden City Special School

Abstract

Persons with intellectual disabilities (PWID) often experience limitations in cognitive functioning that distinguish them from the broader population. Although these differences may be real or perceived, they frequently result in significant social consequences, including stigma and exclusion. Deeply rooted cultural attitudes tend to reinforce negative perceptions of intellectual disability, often portraying affected individuals as less capable in various aspects of human endeavour. However, emerging perspectives suggest that PWID may demonstrate strengths in non-verbal and visual forms of communication, particularly through artistic expression. This study explored self-expression through art-making among persons with intellectual disabilities using structured creative art sessions. The research adopted a qualitative approach to examine how participants communicate ideas, emotions, and experiences through visual media. The focus was on understanding art as a medium of expression rather than as a measure of technical skill. The study was conducted with students from two special education institutions in Kumasi, Ghana: Deduako Life Community Special Vocational School and Garden City Special School. Participants were engaged in guided colour-based art activities designed to encourage free expression and creativity within a supportive environment. Findings revealed that persons with intellectual disabilities were able to effectively express themselves through visual art. Their works demonstrated originality, emotional engagement, and the ability to convey meaning through colour, form, and composition. The results challenge deficit-based assumptions about intellectual disability and highlight the communicative and expressive potential of PWID. The study concludes that art-making provides an important avenue for self-expression and communication among persons with intellectual disabilities and supports the need for inclusive creative spaces that foster their artistic development and social participation.