Neon

Classic neon signs, including Stefan’s iconic rainbow, are on display over summer at State Library of Queensland's exhibition Neon, from December 6 - February 9.

The fascinating free exhibition will illuminate the history of the noble gas turned marketing tool in Queensland from the 1940s to today, including the artisans who transformed glass bending into an art form.

Included are original and restored neon works that tell an unexplored story of our state, from the winking Mr Fourex to legendary cafes and entertainment venues.

While these illuminated treasures were once a symbol of urban life and culture, many were destroyed when buildings were demolished or renovated. Collectors began rescuing these signs to help preserve the history of the buildings and businesses they adorned.

Exhibition highlights include: 

• Stefan’s rainbow and Jo-Jo's cafe neon signs (including original sketches for the signs)
• Kookaburra Cafe neon signs (logo and text)
• A replica Mr Fourex sign, made from materials gathered from the old Regatta Hotel
• The Playroom sign (legendary Gold Coast venue)
• Rare footage and photographs of neon’s history
• Original sketches and designs for some of Queensland’s visual icons

Curator tours, hands-on workshops and film screenings will be held at State Library over summer to celebrate the glitz and glamour of this unique art form.

Images top to bottom:

Neon ibis & palm tree graphic: Neon exhibition at slq Gallery, State Library of Queensland. 

Queen St image: Night view of Queen Street Brisbane, 1959.  Photographer unknown, John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image lbp00005.

Hula girl neon: Shaky Shack Wahine, Burleigh Heads. Photo by State Library of Queensland.

Pink poodle: Neon sign for the Pink Poodle Motel, Gold Coast, 1973. Photo by John Gollings, John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image 27302-0001-0023.

Kookaburra Cafe's neon sign lit up at night, Paddington Brisbane, Blake Patrick, John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland

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