The 19th-century opium wars resulted in Hong Kong being placed under British colonial rule until its handover to China in 1997. The transition raised uncertainties among residents about their future relationship with China, given the restrictions imposed post-handover. Neon signs, a cultural hallmark of Hong Kong, are gradually disappearing due to government regulations, impacting the artisans behind them. Despite this decline, a new generation of artists like Chankalun and Jive Lau are ensuring the legacy of neon art through creating and teaching. While LEDs present a competitive threat, neon remains a symbol of Hong Kong’s identity.
Jive Lau, a prominent neon artist, showcases his craft at Kowloneon Studio, cherishing the traditional art form in the face of modern challenges. The preservation of neon culture resonates with efforts to conserve remaining historic signs through initiatives like Tetra Neon Exchange and The Hong Kong Neon Heritage. To experience the essence of Hong Kong’s neon-lit streets, explorations along Nathan Road, Portland, and Shanghai Street prove illuminating. To delve deeper into this unique aspect of Hong Kong’s identity, Pascal Greco’s “Hong Kong Neon” and films like “Chinese Box” and “A Light Never Goes Out” offer engaging insights.
With the blend of tradition and modernity, neon artistry continues to illuminate Hong Kong’s streets, serving as a timeless symbol of its vibrant cultural heritage.