Khaya Rendang
a living sculpture
Open to public on invitation & request
STUDIO . GALLERY . HOME
(2 minutes)
A HERITAGE REVISITED
Article by
Prof. Dr Mohd. Ahmad Awang, Interior Design and Architect
Wan Hafiz Wan Ahmad, Fly.fm Radio DJ
Just as our fore-fathers did before us, Razak, an impressionist painter, looks to revisit heritage and love of designing, creating and developing his own home. Or as he calls it – a liveable sculpture. Despite not being well-versed in architecture or interior design, Razak is an avid businessman and an experienced graphic designer, was once an owner of Razak Graphic Malaysia. He applied his skills as an artist to construct what many would see as the makings of a traditional building activist. And in this shelter, there is a short and winding hall that will lead you to the entrance of his spacious and beautifully lit Art Gallery.
Razak has dreamt for years, as a painter, to have an art gallery attached to his home but his approach to it was truly a unique experience. The anticipation of walking through the narrow halls leading to the gallery was the appetiser to the main course – a subtle and thoughtful room that cleverly highlights each of his paintings. A simple dream that has turned to be the envy of any artist or creative person.
From the outside, his shelter looks like a UNESCO building – raw, functional, and most importantly traditional. Razak has a strong sense of Malay heritage. He feels that we should preserve the Malay traditions before it is forgotten and only seen in books and films. And as an artist, he believes in being aware of our environment and how important it is that we take care of it, as we are a part of its habitat. And even though recycled materials cost more, he doesn’t mind paying the surplus to construct his beautiful shelter knowing that it is for a better purpose.
Razak has certainly made a statement with his bravado and courage. Completing his liveable sculpture will take time. His shelter sits on a one acre land that he transformed into a garden. Filled with trees, flowering shrubs, and a pond. It isn’t surprising where his inspirations come from.
As you sit on his garden veranda, you could sense a hint of his proud achievement. Razak’s liveable sculpture was not the star. No, the achievement here is in fact the environment surrounding his shelter. The shelter was thoughtfully constructed to accentuate its environment. It is unique because of its ideology. It is unique because of the harmony between man-made and nature.
His purpose is easily understood as you breathe in the tranquil surroundings. The vivid colours of flowers and different shades of green resembled Razak’s own colourful life. And as an artist, there aren’t any better setting to live in.
Razak resides at Khaya Rendang in Sungai Buloh, Selangor with his beloved family. Surrounded by nature, tranquillity and inspiration. His Art Gallery will be open to the public on invitation or request.