Artist Ma Han's Flags of All Nations is made up of rows of old building bricks that are wrapped in ordinary pieces of cloth and modern fabrics. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Boutique hotel the Opposite House in Beijing is hosting an art installation by artist Ma Han.

The display includes Ma's renowned Flags of All Nations. Rows of old building bricks are wrapped in ordinary pieces of cloth and modern fabrics, which the artist says symbolizes the Chinese capital's cultural history hidden deep within its people but sugarcoated with modern-day conveniences.

Ma says he hopes the art piece will remind people that the city's traditions are deteriorating and that historical cultures and memories may be lost in the process of modernization.

Another piece is Circle. Made up of rings from various building materials, the piece is meant to be a metaphor for the circle of life.

Peter Wynne, area general manager of Swire Hotels which runs the Opposite House, Beijing, says the exhibition not only complements the hotel space, but also gives food for thought.

The artist, born in Central China's Hunan province, is a graduate of the China National Academy of Fine Arts, Hangzhou. Currently based in Beijing, Ma has had his works exhibited in France and the Untied States.

If you go

Ma Han solo art installation

Until March 31

The Opposite House, Building 1, Taikoo Li Sanlitun North, 11 Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang district. 010-6417-6688