The Resurgence of Neon: A Bright Spot in Modern Design

The Neon Renaissance in Pop Culture

Neon's comeback is evident in popular media, where its bright lights are setting the stage for drama and intrigue. Television shows like NBC's "Homicide" have used neon to create an atmosphere of excitement and mystery, while series such as "Alex's Show" and "Sisters" feature neon prominently in their opening sequences. The "John Larroquette Show" even incorporates a playful interaction with a neon sign, highlighting the medium's whimsical potential.

Understanding Neon's Luminous Legacy

To appreciate neon's current renaissance, it's essential to delve into its history and technical aspects. Neon, derived from the Greek "neos" meaning "new gas," was first popularized in Paris by Georges Claude in 1910. The technology crossed the Atlantic in 1923 when Earle C. Anthony installed two neon signs in his Los Angeles Packard dealership for a staggering $24,000—a sum that could buy a house or two cars at the time.

Neon signs are crafted by filling vacuum tubes with gases like neon or argon. The smaller the tube's diameter, the more intense the light and the higher the voltage needed. Today, over 150 neon colors can be created by combining different gases, including krypton, xenon, and helium. However, classic hues like Ruby Red neon gas and lavender argon gas, which turns blue with mercury, remain favorites.

In its heyday, neon was a symbol of the American Dream, with the 1950s seeing an explosion of pink and turquoise signs adorning drive-ins and diners. But by the 1960s, plastic signs began to overshadow neon's brilliance, leading to a decline in its popularity. It wasn't until the 1970s that a new generation of neon artisans emerged, transforming the medium from advertising to art.

The Art and Craft of Neon

Creating neon art involves shaping hollow glass rods with a cross-fire—a setup of pipes producing a flame hot enough to melt glass. Artisans bend the glass to form designs, which are then filled with gas and electrified to create illuminated masterpieces. Modern neon signs use lightweight transistorized transformers, making them easier to handle than their heavy, copper-wired predecessors.

Neon's Market Appeal and Collectibility

Neon's appeal extends to collectors and enthusiasts, with specialty shops and manufacturers popping up in diverse city areas and online. LaDean Harlow, owner of The Neon Lady in St. Louis, MO, notes that beer signs, often combined with sports team logos, are particularly popular among Baby Boomers. These signs are sometimes subsidized by beer companies as part of their marketing strategies.

Websites like New Marketing Technologies offer both new and vintage neon signs, with some rare pieces fetching high prices even if non-functional. The demand for neon extends internationally, with many orders coming from Europe, where neon production is scarce.

Neon: A Personal and Artistic Choice

Whether collectors prefer vintage or modern neon, the market offers a wide range of options, from advertising signs to unique, custom creations. Neon's blend of rigidity and fragility makes it a distinctive medium for artistic expression, capable of drawing viewers in with its luminous allure.

Interesting Neon Facts and Stats

• The global neon gas market size was valued at USD 78.5 million in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2021 to 2028. (Source: Grand View Research)
• Neon lighting can last between 8 to 15 years if properly maintained, making it a durable choice for signage and art. (Source: Signs.org)
• The city of Las Vegas, known for its iconic neon signs, has a Neon Museum dedicated to preserving historic neon signs, reflecting the cultural significance of the medium. (Source: The Neon Museum)

In conclusion, neon's resurgence is more than a fleeting trend; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of this vibrant medium. As neon continues to shine brightly in various facets of culture and design, it remains a powerful visual statement that captivates and inspires.