Anyone who’s ever picked up shells on a beach knows how easily found objects can make their way into our homes….  But Chinese artist Hong Hao takes this to another level, with his highly detailed photographic artworks that focus on the ephemera and belongings in his life.

By combining images of his belongings – whether treasured for years or standard household clutter – Hong Hau gives a unique, artist’s view of our human desire to collect:   

The Long March in Panjiayuan (2004) (above)

If you’re lucky enough to be in Beijing over the next few weeks you can catch a  exhibition of Hong Hao’s most recent work at the Pace Gallery (From 16 March to  April 27), including my favourite, above: As It Is – The Writings of a Hundred (pencil on found paper 2011)  

My Things: Book Keeping of 06C (2007) Hong Hao

[All images from Artnet]