Chen Mo, a professor in the School of Humanities of Zhejiang Ocean University. [Photo/CGTN]

Chen wanted to make a change and save the culture of fishing, as well as raise locals' income.

In 2014, she set up the "Workshop for Art" with a group of students who were also fond of art and humanities.

They came to the isolated Xuanshan Island. Matiaotou village would be the pilot point for their remodeling program called "House for Island Homestay".

Chen's plan was different from the stereotyped commercialization.