"Once the theory proves effective here, it can be duplicated in many other Chinese villages," he says.

At first, Cong tried lecturing villagers about art design, but failed to generate any enthusiasm.

"They thought I was insane when I proposed that they make art themselves. Some of them said I was a fraud," Cong says.

He won the trust of the people by doing something for them first. After observing residents' activities for several days, he settled on making a bench using wood and rocks in an open area. It allowed residents to rest and chat. It soon ignited a desire for a better local living environment.

So far, more than 150 residents of Gejia have taken part in the art project, looking for places that need improving and thinking about the best approach. Cong and his students offer suggestions and advice.