Have you ever wondered about the hidden world of traditional glass neon?
Not the LED variety with RGB chips and light diodes, but glass neon – the iconic luminescent medium that has adorned cities worldwide, yet still harbours a mystique that extends beyond its radiant glow. Unlike its contemporary LED counterpart, traditional glass neon traces its origins to the innovative mind of Georges Claude in France in 1910 and has captivated imaginations for over a century.
Even now stands as a testament to innovation and creativity around the world, yet the veil of secrecy surrounding this craft has persisted, with whispers of clandestine practices and hidden figures lingering in the air.
The question begs: why has neon remained cloaked in secrecy for so long? In an age where knowledge is at our fingertips, the accessibility to this artisanal crafts form remains limited. Perhaps, the answer lies in the intricate history of glassmaking—a craft steeped in centuries of refinement and tradition.
The historical context of glassmaking may provide insight into the guarded nature of the neon craft. For centuries, alchemists and glassmakers have meticulously refined the recipes and techniques for producing translucent and durable glass that we see and use nowadays. The legacy of such craftsmanship is exemplified by the esteemed Venetian glass, which found its zenith in the 13th century on the island of Murano. Here, a closed community of glassmakers flourished under strict governmental regulations, safeguarding their craft and knowledge from external influences. One would risk the penalty of treason with the punishment of a death sentence for transferring knowledge or tools of Murano glassmaking to outsiders of the island. Similar to their predecessors, a number of modern-day artisans still uphold age-old traditions, passing down their precious knowledge with caution and care.
Parallels may be drawn between the practices of Murano glassmakers and the secretive nature of neon craftsmen and technicians. Despite the passage of time and technological advancements, the neon industry remains rooted in tradition, adhering to standards established over a century ago. One may wonder: why does neon still adhere to the Renaissance-era rules? The technical drawing at Leonardo Da Vinci’s time has influenced Europe setting its technical drawing ISO standard, which is different from the American ANSI standard, still continues to guide today’s neon technical drawing design, even in 2024.
Yet, amidst the secrecy, a journey of discovery unfolds. Through “The Neon Girl” project, I embarked on a global quest to unravel the mysteries of neon. From hidden workshops to open-minded mentors, I unearthed the secrets of this elusive craft, one lesson at a time. I had the privilege of learning from esteemed neon benders and artists from around the globe, each imparting invaluable knowledge and insights. However, even some of them have experienced deliberate concealment of techniques in their own learning process, such as bombarding, which is essential for neon illumination, highlights the clandestine nature of this artisanal craft.
With each flicker of light, a new chapter unfolds.
In “Every Body Is A Beach Body“, commissioned by the Karen Leung Foundation for their ExtraOrdinary Exhibition in 2020, I challenged conventional beauty standards, and promoted body positivity and self-love. By immortalising the silhouettes of dear friends in neon, I have redefined the traditional glass-blowing technique to shape the neon glass walls into body silhouettes. Accompanied by a mirror, “Every Body Is A Beach Body” invites viewers to embrace their bodies as they are, basking in the glow of acceptance.
– Light as Air
If we join hands and force together as a community, we can light up a better future.
In “Light as Air“, a large outdoor sculptural neon installation commissioned by La Prairie for Art Basel Hong Kong last year, I shed light on the importance of air quality. Through a symphony of upcycled broken neon and interactive design, I illuminate the path to a brighter future—one where collective gesture holds the key to environmental protection.
As a woman in a male-dominated industry, my journey is one of disruption and defiance. With each piece, I push the boundaries of neon, using it as a catalyst for change. Through experimentation and innovation, I strive to redefine the medium, inspiring others to join me on this luminous journey toward a brighter tomorrow.
In my pursuit of this artisanal mastery, I have encountered challenges and triumphs alike. I have currently gone to a country where I don’t speak the language, France, to study a year-long neon diploma at a public high school, delving into the origin of this traditional craft. The neon studio—a realm of fiery burners and delicate glass—holds secrets known only to those who dare to enter and explore. It is here, amidst the flickering glow of neon tubes, that I have honed my craft, learning the art of bending light to my will.
But neon is more than just a medium—it is a symbol of resilience and ingenuity. From its humble beginnings in a French laboratory to its iconic presence in the streets of Hong Kong, neon has transcended its origins, becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration.
In the heart of every neon creation lies a story—a testament to the human spirit and our capacity for creation. Each piece is a testament to the countless hours of labor and love poured into its creation, a testament to the enduring legacy of neon.
As I look to the future, I wish to set up a creative safe space for female-identifying bodies to explore the medium. I hope to see a world where neon shines brighter than ever before. A world where innovation and sustainability converge, where neon is celebrated not just for its commercial value and beauty, but for its potential to change the world.
In this world, the secrets of neon are no longer shrouded in mystery, but shared openly with all who seek to learn. Together, we will illuminate the path forward, casting aside the shadows of doubt and uncertainty, and embracing the boundless possibilities of the neon-lit future.
*This writing has been published in Prestige Hong Kong March 2024 Edition
The Neon Girl 