Can you tell me a little bit about you?
I am an artist born and raised in Singapore. I got my BFA from LASALLE College of the Arts where I am currently also working as a part-time lecturer there. I was formally trained in the field of painting but has also dabbled with other mediums like sculpture and installations within my practice.
When did you first discover art, or realize you wanted to make it yourself?
Probably not a very different story from many other artists. The interest to create or make something sparked during my childhood.
What do you like most about working where you do?
Best studio mate in the world. His name is Leonard Wee!
What ideas are you exploring in your practice?
My works evoke a distinctive tropical environment through a seemingly joyful colour palette, but they are indeed concerned with stories of loss and marginalisation. Both factual events and personal experiences are fundamental in my works as I mix fact and fiction to create a discourse.
What is your process like?
Sometimes the idea come first. Sometimes the form comes first. But most times, it goes back and forth.
What is the strangest thing you’ve ever had to do for art?
Once I saw these drain covers in my neighbourhood and I thought they were really beautiful. I came back late at night when it was way quieter with a trolley, and I took them back to studio. Needless to say, drain covers were not the only objects that I’ve brought home all these years.
Do you have a day job or other work that you split your time between?
I am a part time lecturer teaching with the faculty of fine arts at LASALLE College of the Arts.
Do you have a mentor, or a piece of advice (or both), which has influenced your practice?
My lecturer once told me “Say ‘thank you’ when people compliment you”.
Is there any piece of advice you would offer to others?
It is completely okay to ask for help.
What does it mean to you to have a “community?”
Many a times, you will be in studio alone, contemplating your works alone. Having a tight trustable group of positive-minded friends to share some of these concerns can help a lot. Hopefully, constructive too.
Do you have any routines or rituals in the studio that get you into the mode or mindset to make your work?
I love going out for regular walks at the hardware store. On regular days, I spent about 5 hours a week in my studio. Towards a solo, you can expect to see me sweating, crying and laughing in my studio every day till super late.
How significant has attending art school been on your practice?
This is a tricky one. It is important for one to know why do they want or need it. I have been thinking of pursuing my MFA soon.
What do you find most daunting, challenging, or frustrating about pursuing art?
People (non-artists) have this preconceived notion of what it is like to be an artist. The explaining part can be exhausting.
What is the most exciting thing you’ve done or accomplished so far, related to your work?
I recently did a 2 month residency program with Salzburg Kunstverein in Salzburg, Austria. Hands down, my best residency experience yet.
Find more at khairullahrahim.com and on Instagram @khairullahrahim!
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