Divas who dared

Two multitalented and glamorous women decided to boldly experiment with existing forms of art, music, fashion and personal style, leaving an indelible imprint on Chinese culture in the process. Mathew Scott visited the Hong Kong exhibitions held in their honor.

Pass through the doors of the Centre for Heritage, Arts and Textile (CHAT) in Tsuen Wan, and you'll be greeted by Rebecca Pan. Though present at the venue only in the form of photos and video clips, the spirit of this multidimensional entertainer surrounds viewers as they wander through the exhibition celebrating her remarkable life and times.

Now 93, Pan is still active as an artist. She is busy writing her memoir as well as adding new material to the archive that forms the basis of CHAT's With the Sun, She Quells the Night - A Tribute to Rebecca Pan exhibition. Watching the milestones of her illustrious career brought to life all over again must have been an emotional experience for the veteran actor and singer. The creative team - led by co-curators Wang Weiwei and Bruce Li and contributing artist Enoch Cheng - has managed not only to re-create the many worlds Pan has lived and worked in, but also design an immersive experience for the audience.