Among the important categories of Chang's collection are vintage furniture from Shanghai as well as manuscripts of the poster calendars. "We are aware that these poster calendars represent an important part of commercial art in the 20th century, but few of the original manuscripts have survived," Chang says. "I held an exhibition of these before. I think they capture an important page of China's industrial history."

Collecting artwork has helped him find a peaceful space for himself away from busy daily work.

"Through dialogue about these objects, I have learned many interesting facts and achieved a kind of balance in my life," he says, adding the rich cultural background of the collection has given more depth to his music and made him a better artist.

Contact the writer at zhangkun@chinadaily.com.cn