The iconic REX Cinema in Kuala Lumpur – an institution synonym with the 50’s generation – is given a fresher breath with a new look and new role. A big, neo-classical building nestled between Petaling Street, Jalan Sultan and bustling Kotaraya Mall, REX building is now a new icon in the capital, attracting youngsters and art lovers, not forgetting visitors from afar.
Once an attraction for Hollywood’s movies and Shaw Brothers’ legacy, the building was no more an old cinema with a parking lot. Long abandoned and untouched by time, the building managed to survive the development and commercialism. Fast forward, REX has transformed into an arts and social juncture branded as REXKL, with fresher look and liveable activities. As few small events starting taking parts in the venue, one big inaugural event that taking place at the moment is iNyala – the avant garde art programme for all to participate.
According to the organiser, iNyala is the first event in which college/university students will be able to contribute fresh, higher level ideas by incorporating the iNYALA theme: “Imagine the Impossible”, under the guidance of industry professionals. Unlike conventional mediums, innovation will play a key part in conveying the creative aspects to encourage appreciation and value in the arts.
The objectives are vivid. Promoting emergence of art and technology in Malaysia; nurturing a new generation of artists through unconventional mediums and platforms; and connecting people via engaging and responsive art pieces. With a combination of technology and multi media, the artworks are expected to be extremely rare for Malaysian scenes. The event started with a series of workshops from August until October 2019, followed by main exhibition in November. So watch out this space!
Back to now REXKL, much thanks to the ‘collective of like-minded architects, social innovators, brand identity builder and filmmaker, who comes together to repurpose the Rex Cinema building into a commerce-driven community space for all. Thoughtful content and processes that are in respect of the cinema’s history and its present community had been put in place to reshape the building and rebuild its social interaction within the community of Jalan Petaling, Jalan Sultan and dwellers of Kuala Lumpur city at large. REXKL was born out of our desire to reimagine a community space in the heart of the city – where individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds can meet and build connections.’
Event: iNYALA
Workshops: August to October 2019
Exhibition 1 to 30 November 2019
Address: REXKL, 80 Jalan Sultan, Kuala Lumpur (Next to Petaling Street)
Email: hello@inyala.my
web: http://inyala.my/home/