The Urbanscapes House

It was finally back. And the new format had been a reassuring departure. Urbanscapes was coming back into town. And this time around it was snack into the heart of KL.

Rather than making it exclusive - and damn expensive - the organiser got the clue that the festival should be about the urbanites. By having a core in the middle of town - a converted old office building in Jalan Kasturi - as the heart of the festival, the party would be accessible to everybody. And you can get a sample of the festivities for free. If you wanted more, you can always pay for the gigs going on around town.

Want to try your luck?The main lobby with the stage on the backgroundLet's check the other floorsAt the Urbanscapes House when I visited yesterday, there were an art exhibit - at the basement and the first floor - cafés and shops on the other floor. There was a stage on the ground floor which I understood would be hosting some short film screening as well.

It was lively and happening on the ground floor while at the same time quiet and reflective at the art rooms. The layout of the house was just perfect for this kind of event personally and I find the whole set up refreshing. Like an oasis in the middle of the city - ironic that it was raining when I arrived.

Those were the themes I supposed ...The skateboard exhibition .... more on that laterYou can also choose to chill ....The location was ideal of you were taking the LRT - either you stop at Pasar Budaya or Masjid Jamek. For outdoor event, Medan Pasar was just right across the street from the House.

I was impressed with the skateboard exhibition on the first floor. I was surprised that some of the local exhibitor had been showcasing their work abroad all this while. The curating was also quite neat.

Some word game ....A peek outside from the verandah on the top floorTime to head back ....The final thing to mention was the verandah on the top floor. It would take you out to the open with a view of both the flag at Dataran Merdeka on one side and Petronas Twin Towers and KL Tower on the other. A nice touch.

The House would be opened until the 7th of May.

Kites. Everywhere.

On my way back from ParkCity to Subang last Wednesday, I stopped by Bangsar Shopping Centre to do a bit groceries and stumbled into these colourful kites adorning the main foyer. Apparently for the week - which I suspect coincided with the international school break - the centre was organising a kite exhibit. All the way from building, painting and flying them in the end. There were hundreds of them already on display for a competition ending this weekend.

Quite interested in seeing what would unfold this weekend. Idlan especially is fond of kites.