Difficulty: Explorer (Level 1)
For decades, Hong Kong has been known for its bright neon signs.
The signs started as a form of advertising, but they quickly became a popular symbol for the city. Big brands and department stores had signs, but small family shops did, too.
Neon signs were most popular in the second half of the 1900s. Sadly, there are not many neon signs left in the city today. In 2010, the government began creating strict rules to make sure neon signs would not fall and hurt people. That is why many of these signs had to be taken down.
Also, some shops decided to switch to LED lights, which are cheaper.
But if you look carefully, you might be able to spot some neon signs in older districts, like many in Kowloon.
‘Neon’ art
Materials
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highlighter marker (with a thick, rectangular tip)
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black pen
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paper
Instructions
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Use your highlighter marker to write the text for your sign. Make sure that the lines are thick. If you’re making a bigger sign, draw two lines for each stroke to make it thicker. You can also draw some images. Don’t draw them too small.
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Trace the outline of the text and images with your black pen.
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Making real neon signs requires a lot of skill, but this simple design can decorate a card for someone or be hung on a wall as art.
Art is everywhere
Materials
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camera (you can use a phone camera, digital camera or even a disposable film camera)
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adult to walk with you
Instructions
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Many neon signs have disappeared in Hong Kong. But you can still find a lot of interesting art.
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Take a walk around your neighbourhood with an adult. Look at shop signs and restaurants – both old and newer places can have interesting signs and art. Try to find hidden art that people might not usually pay attention to. Are there any neon signs near you?
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Take photos of five “hidden” art spots. Show it to your friends and other family members. See if they can figure out where these “hidden” art spots are!
