More important, he was intrigued by the abstract nature of the traditional cultural designs. As he saw more of them, he started to sense that he could apply them to modern life through his own creations.

He began by creating a series of stickers and paintings featuring elements of blue-and-white porcelain.

"Those in the forms of a fish and a red cross were particularly popular," said Su, who opened an online store in 2013 to sell his creative cultural items.

He also created a Chinese map with porcelain designs, which attracted considerable attention online.

"This shows that our traditional culture is becoming increasingly popular and that more people are embracing it on a personal level," Su said.

After his innovative use of traditional Chinese cultural elements caught the attention of Beijing Gongmei Group, Su's designs now appear on phone holders and scarves. The company has been involved with the inheritance and development of China's arts and crafts culture for about 70 years.

"Cooperation with the company greatly encouraged me and further motivated me to incorporate more ancient designs with contemporary elements," Su said.