Chen's works. (Photo/newssc.org)

Chen Tingfang, 69, who makes his living selling vegetables in a market in Chengdu, never expected that one day his paintings would be displayed and sold in an art exhibition. However, it really happened.

Chen's sketches on cigarette paper have been displayed in art exhibition. 20 of his works sold immediately at prices from 50 to 100 yuan. Some people came from Beijing to Chengdu specially to buy his works.

Chen's paintings first caught people’s attention on Chinese social media. His animals such as monkeys, tigers and birds are lively and fun. His landscapes and people are simple and natural. Most of his paintings were drawn on cigarette papers or old calendars which has added a nostalgic tone to his works.

Chen, born in 1946, never received any education and is illiterate. Selling vegetable in the market in Chengdu, he earns about up to 100 yuan a day. At the age of 54, he was in a car accident which left him with disability in his leg. He started painting two years later and kept at it for more than ten years. "I am addicted to painting. Sometimes, I paint in the night when I can’t sleep. Painting just helps me to relax," Chen said.

Chen's wife who considered painting as a waste of time has become supportive of Chen's artistic pursuit. Chen said that most of the subjects of his paintings come from his imagination. "I just feel happy when painting," Chen said.  

Chen Tingfang. (Photo/newssc.org)

Chen's works. (Photo/newssc.org)