A LINGERING GLOW

There is a beauty that you cannot always capture, but this book manages to recreate it with precision and care.

By using eight-colour printing, including four fluorescent inks, the publication brings the vibrant glow of Hong Kong’s iconic neon signs to life. It allows readers to explore the intricate craftsmanship behind the city’s neon signs from the 1950s to the 1970s. The experience is further enhanced by a mini UV torch, which, when used in a dark environment, simulates the radiant effect of neon light at night. This interplay of light and colour transports the reader, blurring the line between page and reality.

Artful Documentation

The book is divided into two parts: one delves into the rich history of Hong Kong’s neon lights and the city’s thriving restaurant scene, while the other documents 218 detailed neon signage manuscripts. Each sign is painstakingly reproduced using advanced printing techniques, maintaining an authenticity that speaks to the meticulous research and testing behind the project. Fluorescent inks, carefully calibrated to avoid colour distortion, ensure the closest possible representation of the original neon designs.

The hardcover book is encased in an industrial-style box, crafted from a paper material that evokes the steel once integral to neon sign production. Transparent acrylic tubing, reminiscent of neon light tubes, lines the box, enhancing the tactile experience.

A Cultural Tribute

This project is not just a visual feast, but a tribute to a vanishing artform of deep significance to Hong Kong’s cultural history. The intricate design and thoughtful craftsmanship invite readers to reconnect with a bygone era, reminding us of the power of design to evoke memories and preserve cultural heritage.