Finding His Voice Through Art

Say Kim Han may be a man of few words, but when he picks up a paintbrush or pencil, a different side of him comes alive and he transforms into an artist who turns blank canvases into colourful adventures. Diagnosed with Intellectual Disability, Kim Han’s journey with art began in 2012, when he joined the first intake of TOUCH Centre for Independent Living’s (TCIL) Artist Programme.  

When Kim Han first arrived at TCIL as a trainee in 1995, he found it challenging to communicate and express himself. Conversations were often limited to short, monosyllabic replies, and he would sometimes repeat what others say. With patient guidance from the Lifeskills Coaches at TCIL, Kim Han gradually learned to manage his emotions and discovered art as his primary medium for self-expression.  

Caption: Kim Han focused on his painting.  

Chloe Liew, Centre Manager of TCIL, reflects, “When I first met Kim Han, he was not able to describe his feelings or manage his emotions well. When confronted with an emotionally triggering situation, he would sometimes cope by shouting or hitting himself to release his frustrations. Over the years, Kim Han has come a very long way. I’m proud to see that he has grown in self-awareness and emotional regulation. Art has also helped him grow and express himself through his drawings.” 

Caption: Kim Han has given Chloe many drawings as birthday presents. 

“Kim Han has made noticeable progress in stepping out of his comfort zone by initiating conversations. He is beginning to take the initiative to engage with his coaches too – like sharing what he ate for lunch! Keep it up, Kim Han!” shares Eileen Soon, Kim Han’s Form Coach for 2025.  

Discovering His Talent for Art 

Through the Artist Programme, Kim Han was introduced to a variety of art mediums and visual languages, learning to express himself through shapes, lines, colours, and textures. During lessons, trainees are encouraged to create their own artworks and develop their distinctive styles.  

Loh Sau Kuen, Senior Art Facilitator of TOUCH SpecialCrafts, shares, “Kim Han excels in sketching intricate details in his artwork. He’s especially talented at drawing buildings and landscapes, and Singapore landmarks like Changi Airport or Marina Bay Sands often show up in his drawings. It’s incredible that he can draw places he’s visited based on his memory down to the smallest detail like the car plate number!” 

Caption: Kim Han introducing his drawing together with Senior Art Facilitator, Loh Sau Kuen. 

When JOURNEY was launched in 2021 as a platform to represent the creative talents of people with intellectual disabilities, Kim Han became one of the first Special Artists to earn an income from his art and participate in collaborations to showcase his talent and determination.  

His work has been featured on National Day Parade (NDP) Fun Packs, and he was selected to co-design art wearables with UOB Painting of the Year artists, in conjunction with the 42nd UOB Painting of the Year art competition to celebrate inclusion and creative achievement. 

Caption: Kim Han’s artwork was selected to be on the NDP Fun Pack in 2020. 

Caption: Kim Han donning a shirt co-designed together with Lester Lee, a UOB Painting of the Year artist, featuring their favourite local foods in Singapore.  

“Kim Han is one of the few Special Artists who consistently receives requests for commissioned work. It’s testament to his talent and I’m proud that his hard work and ability is gaining recognition,” shares Sau Kuen.

Caption: Kim Han starting off with sketching on a commissioned piece.  

Gaining Independence Through Art 

Art has become Kim Han’s voice, a way for him to connect with others and express what words cannot. At home, while others may unwind with television or games, Kim Han is often found drawing and painting, inspired by themes from his art classes at TCIL.  

His brother, Alex Say, shares, “We’re proud that Kim Han has discovered his talent for art at TCIL. Through JOURNEY, he has also been able to earn an income for himself – something we’ve never thought possible. We’re grateful that he has become more independent and we can communicate with Kim Han better today.” 

Outside of art, Kim Han is known for his disciplined and active lifestyle. When he was younger, he used to jog around TCIL before reporting for class. Sporty and energetic, he enjoys swimming and is quick to follow any routine set in place. At home, Kim Han supports his family in his own way, often helping his mother carry groceries. These routines not only keep him grounded but also reflect his caring and dependable nature. 

Caption: Kim Han shares a close relationship with his mother, who used to participate in activities with him at TCIL.  

“I hope Kim Han can continue growing by learning new skills at TCIL – whether it’s taking care of himself, ensuring his safety, or creating more inspiring works of art!” shares his mother, Mdm Cheng Say Hock.  

In commemoration of SG60, Kim Han is one of eight Special Artists selected to be part of ‘Doing Good Together’ a collaboration between JOURNEY, TCIL and seniors from TOUCHpoint@Yishun 436, an Active Ageing Centre by TOUCH. Through this project, Kim Han was partnered with Mdm Joy Lim to create art that celebrates togetherness and community.

Caption: Kim Han together with Mdm Joy Lim, working on a painting that represents their love for Singapore.  

“I’m happy and moved to see Kim Han involved in this collaboration. I hope that through this experience, he can learn how to communicate better with seniors and have meaningful conversations with them,” shares Mdm Cheng.

Kim Han continues to inspire those around him with his discipline and resilience. Through his art, Kim Han shares his unique perspective and reminds us that some of the most meaningful stories are told not with words, but with creativity and heart.  

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TOUCH Centre for Independent Living (TCIL) is a day activity centre which offers competence-based training programmes for adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities. It aims to provide them with functional knowledge and skills that will equip them to live independently in the community. This client-focused training programme teaches daily living and pre-employment skills to trainees, and visual arts, sports and recreational activities to improve their quality of life.     

Story published in 2025.