Zhao Zhongyi, an inheritor of Nanjing lanterns, recently came to Qidong, Nantong, East China's Jiangsu province, to visit his disabled student Chen Quan and offer him some lantern-making materials.

Chen's home is filled with a variety of different lanterns, ranging from traditional to innovative. Zhao praised Chen's works and gave him some pointers for improving his craft.

Chen is 42 years old and suffers from ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that mainly affects the spine. In August, he participated in a lantern-making class in Nanjing with the help of the disabled persons' federation of Qidong. He encountered many difficulties during the class, as he can't stand or sit for long periods of time.

Zhao said he decided to teach Chen how to make lanterns because he was touched by his persistence. Chen managed to overcome all adversity and finish the 21-day class, which impressed Zhao.

Zhao has been looking after the disabled student and hopes Chen can continue making lanterns. He also said he will offer Chen his full support.

Chen has become more confident as his lantern-making skills have improved. He now makes a living through the craft of making lanterns and has received many orders.

He is also contributing to society by serving as a teacher at Qidong's first lantern-making class for disabled people.

Chen is grateful to be able to make his own living through lantern making and wants to continue improving his craft and promoting the art form in Qidong.