The Evolution of Neon Signs in Hong Kong

Introduction

• Observation of change in street signs from neon lights to LED lights.
• Neon lights offer a unique, warm, and soft glow compared to LEDs.
• Neon lights are more costly and require handcrafted production.

The Art of Neon Light Crafting

• Master Hu Zhikai, a veteran neon artisan from Hong Kong.
• Involved in crafting neon signs and films, e.g., A Light Never Goes Out.
• Significant projects include the BOC Tower's 5,000 neon tubes.

Crafting Process

• Neon lights created by heating and bending glass tubes with gases like neon and argon to produce different colors.
• Complex crafting process requiring expertise and patience.

Economic Factors and Historical Context

• Neon signs were prominent in post-1949 Hong Kong, influenced by Shanghai's techniques.
• Significant in the '80s and '90s for businesses to attract customers before the digital age.
• High cost led to neon's decline as businesses shifted to cheaper LED alternatives.

Cultural Significance and Preservation

• Hong Kong as a cultural hub for neon signs.
• Rapid decline in neon artisans; currently, very few remain in the field.
• Efforts to preserve neon's history using new technology like spatial video with Canon and PICO collaboration.

Personal Reflections and Future of Neon Artistry

• Master Hu's apprentice, Shi Yongqi, emphasizes the timeless allure of neon lights.
• New possibilities as neon lights adapt to smaller, indoor spaces.
• Personal stories of neon's cultural impact and an emotional connection to the craft.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

• Technology and societal changes challenge traditional crafts like neon lights.
• Ongoing efforts to capture and appreciate neon light legacy through modern technology.
• Call to action for the audience to explore, document, and celebrate the remaining traces of neon culture.