Overcoming hurdles in learning through creativity
Art education makes dyslexia a superpower. It creates opportunities for students with dyslexia to thrive by embracing alternative learning styles, fostering creativity and boosting confidence.
For many students, school is a place of challenges — reading aloud, solving math problems and memorizing spelling words can feel overwhelming. Traditional education often favors text-based learning, making it difficult for students who process information differently — those who see the world in patterns, shapes and colors rather than letters and numbers. But learning takes on a whole new meaning in the art room.
Dyslexia as a strength, not a setback
Dyslexia is often seen as a barrier to learning, but research suggests it comes with unique strengths — enhanced spatial reasoning, pattern recognition and creative problem-solving. These qualities are fundamental to art and design. According to Your Brain on Art, individuals with dyslexia tend to excel in visualization, thinking holistically and approaching challenges from unique perspectives.
In an art classroom, these abilities are celebrated. Students struggling with traditional academics succeed through hands-on learning, visual storytelling and creative exploration. Instead of being forced into rigid learning structures, they engage with materials that make sense to them — clay, paint, fabric and digital tools — allowing their intelligence to shine.
As someone with dyslexia myself, I know these struggles firsthand. Growing up, I found school difficult — reading, writing and spelling didn’t come quickly to me. I often felt frustrated and discouraged, like I was constantly falling behind. But, when I stepped into the art room, everything changed. Art allowed me to express myself, succeed and see my abilities in a new light. It wasn’t about what I couldn’t do but what I could do. Art became my strength and, ultimately, it led me to a career where I now help students discover their superpowers through creativity.
How art unlocks learning
Unlike traditional classrooms that rely heavily on reading and writing, the art room engages students through multisensory learning. This approach enhances comprehension and retention in ways that textbooks cannot.
For example, when learning color theory, students physically mix paint, arrange color swatches and connect colors to emotions through storytelling. When exploring historical art movements, they don’t just read about Picasso — they create Cubist self-portraits, experiencing the artistic style firsthand.
These methods align with the A+ Schools model, which promotes arts integration across subjects to deepen student engagement. By learning through experience, students — especially those with dyslexia — develop skills beyond the art classroom.
From frustration to success: real student stories
Art has the power to transform learning. One fourth grader, overwhelmed by reading and writing challenges, was ready to give up. Every day felt like a struggle, filled with frustration and self-doubt. Then, he discovered sculpting. Given a block of clay, he shaped intricate animal figures with remarkable detail and patience. What once felt impossible in a traditional classroom, suddenly made sense. Through sculpture, he found confidence and even started writing short descriptions of his work — something he had once avoided.
Another third grader who refused to engage in reading activities, became captivated by a weaving project inspired by Kente cloth. She lost herself in the patterns and colors, eager to learn more. Instead of dreading research, she enthusiastically explored African symbols, presenting her findings visually rather than through a written report. She felt excited to share what she had learned for the first time.
These moments prove the power of art in education. It allows students to succeed in their own way, fostering creativity, confidence and a love for learning.
Why creativity matters in the 21st century
The impact of art education extends far beyond the classroom. According to World Economic Forum, in today’s world, creativity is one of the most sought-after skills in the workforce. Whether in graphic design, fashion, digital media, architecture or engineering, the ability to think creatively and solve problems is invaluable.
OKCPS Superintendent Dr. Polk recently visited my school, Britton Elementary, and saw this firsthand. She noted that students weren’t just making art but developing real-world skills. Many students now apply their artistic knowledge beyond the classroom, from designing clothing to exploring digital art and expressing emotions through sculpture.
Dyslexia, once viewed as an obstacle, becomes an asset when reframed through art education. The ability to see the world differently is not a disadvantage — it is a gift that should be nurtured.
A call for change: rethinking education
Traditional learning can feel like an uphill battle for students with dyslexia. But in the art room, their struggles transform into strengths. By embracing neurodivergence as a superpower, educators create thriving, confident learners.
As someone who has lived through these challenges and found success, I know that art education makes dyslexia a superpower. I see it in my students every day — the way their eyes light up when they finally grasp the concept, create something they’re proud of and realize that learning doesn’t have to be a struggle.
Art education provides an alternative way to learn and a revolutionary way to experience the world. As educators, parents and advocates, we must shift our approach to learning and celebrate the strengths of all students. By integrating art into education, we empower students with dyslexia to succeed — not despite their differences but because of them.
Kuwantu Cammon, originally from Los Angeles, is an award-winning elementary art educator, the 2025 Britton Elementary School Teacher of the Year and a finalist for the 2025 OKCPS Teacher of the Year. He is also the 2025 OAEA Elementary Art Educator of the Year and a passionate advocate for integrating the arts into everyday learning. With a background in ceramics, fine and performing arts, and education, he inspires young artists to explore creativity through hands-on experiences. Outside the classroom, Kuwantu serves as the Youth Art Month Chair for the Oklahoma Art Educators Association and actively showcases student work in local and national exhibitions.
