Cardin Chan’s life-altering journey began with a visit to the Wufeng Lin Family Mansion near Taichung, Taiwan, leading her to an unexpected path of cultural preservation in Hong Kong. The Wufeng Lin Family Mansion, a magnificent example of traditional Taiwanese architecture, played a pivotal role in Chan’s personal and professional transformation.
In 2016, during a challenging phase in her life, Chan embarked on a month-long trip to Taiwan. At this point, she was grappling with her identity and purpose, having left a job in London that had defined her for years. Her discovery of the Wufeng Lin Family Mansion in a magazine became a crucial part of her itinerary, a decision that would profoundly influence her future.
Upon visiting the mansion, Chan was captivated by its stunning architecture and intricate restoration, a testament to Taiwan’s dedication to preserving its historical heritage. The mansion, dating back to 1864 in the Qing dynasty, is a rare surviving example of its architectural style on such a grand scale in Taiwan. The passionate storytelling of the tour guide, combined with the meticulous restoration of the mansion’s door gods and other features, left a lasting impact on Chan.
The turning point for Chan came during a conversation with a local on a bus ride back to the city center. The local’s gratitude and pride in someone appreciating their cultural heritage ignited a realization in Chan: she had never given such importance to exploring historical sites in her own city, Hong Kong.
This experience sparked a chain reaction within Chan, leading her to actively participate in the preservation of Hong Kong’s cultural identity, specifically its iconic neon signs. Realizing the urgency of the situation and the dwindling existence of these neon signs, Chan felt compelled to take significant action.
She reached out to professionals in the neon industry, immersing herself in the craft and history of neon sign-making. This journey transformed her into an advocate for preserving these glowing symbols of Hong Kong’s unique cultural landscape.
Chan’s story is more than just a personal awakening; it’s a call to action for cultural preservation. Her experience at the Wufeng Lin Family Mansion served as a catalyst, inspiring her to champion the cause of saving Hong Kong’s neon signs and, by extension, part of the city’s soul. Her determination and passion are a reminder of the importance of safeguarding our cultural heritage for future generations.
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