When obsession becomes creative and collectible: an inquiry into hoarding through arts-based research

Recent articles have reported hoarding as a common problem in Singapore. Some cases of clutter have led to death and deterioration of relationships within the family. Research has suggested that hoarding is not merely compulsive acquisition or failing to discard objects, instead, the collector is trying to gain back not only control but ‘possessions’ that were lost.
Objects go beyond their utilitarian purposes, and the objects we keep enter the sphere of personal space and become subjective. As we attach sentimental values to these objects, they in turn bring us thoughts and emotions and set the stage for future relationships.
In this ethnographic and arts-based research underpinned by object relations theory, the researcher and key-informant, also a member of the specific population, collaborate and present a creative synthesis of hoarding as art, and art as therapy. The outcome suggests possibilities of integrating art therapy as an intervention for hoarding behaviours.