In the project, blind children can try out woodblock painting. The goal is to give them confidence and help them integrate into society, Hu said.

It is also a voluntary team effort, Hu and his students and colleagues are all part of the team. Customized drawing techniques and textbooks are designed for blind children.

"They do have a great sense of color through touch. And in their consciousness, a bird singing is white, a cat fighting is black. When they can create paintings and express their feelings, they will not feel they are disadvantaged," Hu said. "Also, when it comes to education, they should have an equal right to learn art."

Children's works painted during the classes are on display in museums and galleries in Zhejiang, Shanghai and overseas. Six pieces were auctioned and 17 were acquired by personal collectors.

"Being special can be a treasure rather than a regret as long as creativity lasts," Hu said.