Bringing Color and Joy: Art for Good’s Mural Activity at Mountbatten Vocational School

Dec 6, 2024 and Jun 13, 2025

Art for Good, a social enterprise that leverages the power of art for positive social impact, recently organized two mural painting activities at Mountbatten Vocational School (MVS) in collaboration with volunteers from Givaudan. These sessions, held on 6 December 2024 and 13 June 2025, transformed the school’s walls into vibrant works of art, brightening the daily lives of students and staff.

A Partnership of Purpose

The mural project was made possible through a partnership with Givaudan, a global leader in fragrance, beauty, and taste innovation, known for its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community engagement. The first event, held on 6 December 2024, saw the participation of 28 volunteers (24 adults and 4 children), while the second event, on 13 June 2025, involved 30 volunteers (22 adults and 8 children). These intergenerational groups painted side by side, bringing creativity, energy, and color to the school’s walls.

Over the course of the two sessions, four wall sections were transformed with unique mural designs, each centered on themes of inclusivity, growth, and joy. The designs were created to be uplifting and accessible, with space for all participants—regardless of age or artistic background—to make their mark on the project.

About Mountbatten Vocational School

Mountbatten Vocational School (MVS) is a special education institution in Singapore that serves students with mild intellectual disabilities. The school provides vocational training and life skills development, empowering students to achieve independence and contribute meaningfully to society. MVS plays a vital role in helping students develop self-confidence, practical skills, and resilience as they prepare for the future.

The Power of Art and Community

The mission of Art for Good is grounded in the belief that art is a powerful tool for healing, learning, and fostering social inclusion. The mural activity at MVS perfectly embodied this mission, bringing together corporate volunteers, children, and the school community to create something lasting and beautiful.

The students and staff at MVS were thrilled with the results. The murals not only enhanced the school’s physical environment but also served as a daily reminder of the support and solidarity from the wider community.

The Meaning Behind the Murals

Each mural was thoughtfully designed to inspire and empower the students at MVS. Below are the meanings and themes of the murals that now grace the school’s walls:

Main Outdoor Wall: A Magical Landscape of Learning and Imagination

The artwork captures the magic of storytelling, seamlessly weaving themes of inclusiveness into fairytales. This grand mural (3.65m height x 7.5m width) transforms the space into a whimsical world full of adventure. The design features mythical creatures from beloved stories, each representing values that inspire the students. In the center, a brave dragon and a noble knight stand side by side, symbolizing courage and resilience. These characters remind the students that bravery is essential in learning, encouraging them to face challenges with a fearless spirit.

At the heart of the mural, a unicorn represents the uniqueness in each child’s individuality and the importance of self-concept. A mermaid, embodying triumph over obstacles and physical challenges, symbolizes the journey of overcoming limitations. These mystical figures inspire students to push past perceived boundaries and thrive against the odds. This enchanting landscape captivates the imagination, fostering a sense of wonder where students can explore, dream, and embrace learning in a world limited only by their imaginations.

Garden Wall: A Celebration of Community and Growth

The artwork portrays a vibrant garden as a metaphor for community, where diverse animals and plants coexist in harmony—each representing the unique roles, voices, and stories within a collective whole. This mural (2.4m height x 3.3m width) celebrates community, learning, and individuality through vibrant garden animals. At its center is an owl, symbolizing wisdom and guidance—core qualities that MVS nurtures in each child’s unique journey. A mother duck and her duckling represent the supportive role of the school and the active involvement of parents in their children’s education.

Surrounding them are animals with distinct traits: a playful squirrel for curiosity, a resilient porcupine for self-protection, a patient snail symbolizing progress at one's own pace, and a quick-witted rabbit for adaptability. These animals, set within a natural garden environment, illustrate the nurturing community at MVS, where every child’s uniqueness is valued, and learning is placed at the core of the experience.

Fairy Garden Path: A Celebration of Fairytales, Female Friendship, and Safety

This mural embraces the spirit of fairytales, highlighting themes of female friendship, feelings of safety, and soft femininity. Set in a whimsical landscape of oversized mushrooms, gentle curves, and warm tones, this artwork creates an imaginative world where young girls can feel seen, supported, and free to be themselves.

At its center, two girls holding hands symbolize trust, connection, and the joy of growing together. Surrounded by fantasy-inspired nature, the scene invites viewers into a gentle space where childhood wonder blends with emotional warmth—offering a quiet yet powerful reminder of how important safe, affirming environments are in every girl's story.

Court in Motion: A Tribute to Teamwork, Energy, and Play

This mural celebrates the power of movement, teamwork, and the boundless energy of sport. Centered around a vibrant basketball, the artwork features four silhouettes in action—each capturing a different moment of the game. Together, they form a visual rhythm that reflects not just athleticism, but also the values of cooperation, discipline, and perseverance.

Set against a bold blue court, the mural reminds viewers of the importance of staying active, building camaraderie, and pushing personal limits. More than just a game, basketball here becomes a symbol of focus, effort, and shared goals—values that inspire both on and off the court.

Looking Ahead

This mural project stands as a testament to the power of community and collaboration in creating lasting, meaningful change. Here, creativity isn’t just about painting a wall—it’s about using art as a catalyst to build a brighter, more inclusive future.

Through Art For Good’s Mural Adoption Program, we support special needs schools and charitable organizations by transforming blank walls into vibrant stories of empowerment and hope. These murals not only beautify spaces, but also foster connection, celebrate diversity, and promote well-being within the community.