He founded the Yu School of porcelain carving and invented the art of sandstone carving. In 1995, he was awarded the title of Folk Artist by UNESCO. In the field of arts and crafts, Professor Yan founded Yupai porcelain carving art and invented mortar stone carving, which added a new artistic variety to practical arts and crafts. His porcelain carving art enjoys a high reputation at home and abroad. He has worked for British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, former Singapore President Huang Jinhui, US Secretary of Commerce Edward Herleway, President of the Japan Cultural Association Tsutomu Minami (known as Lu Xun of Japan), The famous Japanese writer Hashida Sugako (author of "Oshin") and other international celebrities have had their portraits engraved. The works have been presented to state guests as national gifts by the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Tourism Administration many times. China Travel News, English Travel Guide, People's Daily, Beijing Daily, Henan Daily, and Kaifeng Daily have all reported on his artistic achievements. Due to his outstanding achievements in art, in 1995, UNESCO awarded him the title of "Folk Artist" and issued a certificate. His artistic achievements have been compiled in the "Dictionary of Chinese Folk Artists" and "Dictionary of Kaifeng Artists". In addition, he also invented the double-hook Wei-style calligraphy art and performed it at the Asian Games, known as "the best in calligraphy."