NEON

Talking about my obsession of Hong Kong, I was amazed by its numerous neon signs, hanging from the dark background of inelegant facades. These signs are more than advertisement elements in the city; they add a mental and cultural layer to it. A layer which becomes surreal, creating a 3D space overwhelmed by brightness. Streets of HK are so much lit up with these lights and colors that it has become an identity for the city. It has definitely influenced people's lifestyle, as the city is famous for its never-sleeping habits.


Being exposed by these still and flashing lights is an unforgettable experience. When I first saw HK, I was fascinated by this glamorous and joyful play of lights. 


Above their visual effects, these lights reflect an economic mentality. The businessmen and shopkeepers are competing for more audience, more profit. They need to expose their business to people who may not be interested in their services. Hong Kong has chosen this kind of advertisement overload. And it seems to be effective. This city is becoming more and more financially successful from a global point of view. This success is certainly exclusive to a low percentage of its residence; but it is this small portion of the society that projects the image of the city.


Busy streets of Mongkok, lined up with shops of every size, offer everything from food to clothes and electronics. Streets take on a new appearance when sun goes down. A different kind of chaos is seen during the night, with some streets closed to the cars, opening up the way for large crowds of not-so-real customers. Stalls are put up and ready for bargaining. All this liveliness can not be defined without the lights from the shops and signs. It is dazzling the way they decorate the streets.