Zhu Haiyang does olive pit carving at his home in September of last year. (Photo by Qian Lei for chinadaily.com.cn)
Zhu Haiyang, 40, a farmer in Beijing's Miyun district, is making money through olive pit carving artwork this year, with support from the local government.
Due to his old-fashioned tools, Zhu's output is limited. He could only carve a few pieces to sell last year, which was not enough to support his family.
Last September, the local government subsidized Zhu by upgrading his tools and carving machines, greatly raising his efficiency. Zhu said the orders he can handle in one month is now equal to the number of orders he could take for a whole year before.
"I am so glad I can make a living doing what I like and what I'm good at," Zhu said.
Zhu Haiyang does olive pit carving at his home in September of last year. (Photo by Qian Lei for chinadaily.com.cn)
Artworks made of olive pits, carved by Zhu. (Photo by Qian Lei for chinadaily.com.cn)
Zhu Haiyang does olive pit carving at his home in September of last year. (Photo by Qian Lei for chinadaily.com.cn)
A bracelet made of olive pits, carved by Zhu. (Photo by Qian Lei for chinadaily.com.cn)
