Neon Signs: A British Legacy at Risk of Extinction > 자유게시판

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Lately, one unique form of craftsmanship has found itself under threat: the craft of neon signage. A key player in the UK’s cultural history, neon signage has lit up urban landscapes across the world for over a century, from the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus to the brilliant signs of Times Square. Yet, as technology advances, authentic neon signs—handcrafted glass neon signs filled with neon gas—are being overshadowed by cheap, mass-produced, LED alternatives, often deceptively sold as "best neon signs." This threat to both the artistry and its cultural heritage has led to a movement advocating for stronger protections and safeguards for neon sign-making, a plea that has recently gained momentum in British politics.

Neon’s Historical Significance in the UK

Neon was first discovered in the United Kingdom in 1898 by Sir William Ramsay and Morris Travers, who discovered its glowing properties when passing electricity through neon gas. This breakthrough paved the way for the creation of neon signs, which would soon become iconic in vibrant cityscapes, nightlife, and public advertising. From the streets of London to the bright signs in New York, neon signs became a symbol of modernity and cultural vibrancy.

Yet, this iconic craft is now at danger of being lost, with only 27 full-time neon glass benders remaining in the UK. This steep drop in artisanship threatens not only the survival of the craft itself but also the genuine quality and identity of neon signage as a form of creative expression and cultural identity.

The Authenticity of Neon vs. LED Imitations

The most urgent issue facing neon sign-makers today is the market confusion created by LED imitations. While these LED signs may resemble neon in their light output, they lack the skill and craftsmanship that defines authentic neon. Authentic neon signs are carefully constructed from glass tubes, carefully bent, and filled with gas, creating a method that takes years to perfect. By contrast, LED signs are easily made, inexpensive, and often marketed misleadingly, causing confusion about what constitutes genuine neon.

This misunderstanding has had major consequences for small businesses like Neon Creations, a small artisan neon sign maker in Bolton, UK. Founded by Tony and Catherine Spink, the company has seen a sharp drop in demand as customers unknowingly purchase LED "neon" signs from big box stores. When these customers realize the difference, they often contact small businesses for repairs—on items that aren’t even neon, to begin with.

The Cultural and Economic Value of Neon Signage

Neon signs are far more than simple advertisements; they are a crucial aspect of our cultural landscape. They remind us of classic diners, cinemas, music venues, and nightlife hubs. From the lights of Soho to the marquees of the West End, neon has long been a symbol of expression and identity.

The value of neon sign-making, though small, is important. It supports local businesses, sustains jobs, and encourages innovation. In fact, the UK’s creative industries contribute £124 billion annually to the economy, with neon signage playing a small but crucial role in that ecosystem.

Proposed Protections: Ensuring Neon’s Future

In response to these challenges, the campaign to protect neon sign-making is calling for outdoor neon signs greater consumer transparency and stronger safeguards for authentic neon signs. Key figures in the creative industries, including the British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA) and the Heritage Crafts Association, have united to advocate for better regulations. These proposals include the creation of a certification mark or a formal British standard for neon signs, ensuring that only real neon signs are marketed as such.

Additionally, a Neon Signs Protection Act is being discussed, which would create a legal definition for the term "neon" and prevent false advertising. Just as Harris Tweed is protected by law to ensure its authenticity, neon signs deserve similar protections to preserve their cultural and artistic value.

The Future of British Neon Signage

As the UK continues to deal with the challenges posed by mass-produced alternatives, it is crucial that we preserve the heritage of neon signage. The neon craft industry is more than just a business, and it is worth safeguarding for future generations. Small businesses like Neon Creations are dedicated to keeping this art alive, but they need our support.

To ensure neon’s future, we must act quickly. This campaign is about more than just protecting products; it’s about celebrating artistry, protecting creativity, and ensuring that Britain’s neon heritage remains a beacon of creativity for years to come.