Neon signs define Hong Kong’s visual culture through their representations in film, visual art, literature, and other cultural forms. Since 2013, M+ has been acquiring neon signs from the streets of Hong Kong, not only to celebrate their cultural significance but also to preserve these iconic objects that are steadily disappearing from the city's visual landscape. The signs of Sammy’s Kitchen and Kai Kee Mahjong parlour are the first two neons to enter the M+ Collection. By examining them, we gain insight into their design, typography, engineering, and craft. Their journey from the streets into M+ is also the starting point for our research into the long-term preservation and conservation of neons, not just in Hong Kong, but also across the globe.
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