KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 – Beginning July, industry players from artistic fields will join UCSI University to provide insightful talks and workshops to students alike as part of the Artists-in-Residence (AiR) programme.

The programme was launched in line with the University’s “Praxis” concept, where students of UCSI would be expose to industry training and other related practical knowledge.

The AiR programme aims to welcome established and emerging artists from various industries to engage closely with UCSI’s academics and students through scholarly activities.

Aside from that, the programme was also designed to inspire and develop the artistic skills of academics and students, while attempting to inculcate and enliven the local arts scene through the promotion of a variety of art forms.

Starting July 1, Japanese American Designer, Dr Kody Kato will be attached to the UCSI’s School of Architecture until December 31, this year.

Meanwhile, renowned Malaysian pianist Ng Chong Lim will with the University’s Institute of Music (IMus) for two weeks from October 1.

Architecting the future

As for Dr Kato, his work is much focused on streamlining the building design process and utilising principles inspired from nature to create a direct relationship between people, materials, and the natural environment.

The founding member of the architectural firm – Office for Design Evolution (ODE), was selected as one of the Top 10 Most Dynamic Entrepreneurs in Malaysia 2021 by APAC Entrepreneur.

He was recently selected as the Young CAADRIA (The Association for Computer Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia) and won the Best Paper Award for his dissertation in the 17th International Conference for CAADRIA.

Dr Kato’s work has also been published in Space Magazine and has received numerous awards, including the Best Prize for the 28th Space Competition for International Students, Award of Merit for the 2010 Shinkenchiku Residential Design Competition, AIA Student Award of Excellence, AIA Student Award of Merit, and Energy Pioneer Award.

His work has been exhibited in Space Gallery (Seoul) and at the Gwangju Design Biennale in 2009.

Thriving in music

Meanwhile, Ng was featured as a soloist as well as chamber musician in many countries. His recent appearances were in Singapore, where he was involved in “Beethoven Complete Piano Sonatas Project” and “Brahms Piano Concerto no 1 “at Cultural Centre of the Philippines.

He was also invited to give masterclasses and performances at The International Perugia Festival in Italy, The Taipei Maestro Festival, The Opusfest Antipolo International Piano and Chamber Music Festival in the Philippines.

He devotes his free time to charity work, helping many homeless and underprivileged children, locally and in Nepal. Every year, he gives 'A Night for the Children' recital to raise funds for his favourite charities.