Wishing to use the pseudonym Li Jun, the octogenarian says has been modelling since April, but he wants to keep his new pastime a secret from his children.
A widower, he said that he loves being around the art students during his modelling sessions and gets relaxed by their light-hearted attitude.
Though he rarely talks with the students, he likes to have a look at their paintings, state-run Global Times reported.
He receives USD 15.81 for each sitting he does completely nude, giving him an income of about 1,000 yuan a month.
Students appreciate Li's participation in their classes, but teachers said that because Li is advanced in age, they do not ask him to hold demanding poses.