Wanda

인스타그램 인스타그램

상업공간

4,000~5,000

Say hello to Dave the Rave — a legendary figure in the East End of London’s nostalgic scene. Dave isn't your ordinary collector — he’s a passionate hunter of neon signs that once glowed across clubs across the UK. Since his teenage years, Dave has been hunting through market stalls, tracking down rare neon signs. He remembers how he got hooked on neon lights — it all started with a flickering "Open" sign above a fish and chip shop in Bethnal Green. That sparked a fascination that would soon become a lifestyle.

Dave’s collection is now unbelievable. He keeps his finds in a converted warehouse studio in Hackney, filled wall-to-wall with pulsing signage from the '50s through to the early 2000s. Some signs are fully restored; others retain the raw charm of their golden era. Each piece tells a chapter of London’s history — and Dave is the curator. According to him, neon signs are "the heartbeat of the city." They’re not just lights, they’re memories of a disappearing cityscape.

Dave doesn't just collect for himself. He’s also been featured in local galleries, donating pieces for cultural education. His Instagram, full of glowing snapshots and stories, has become a hub for neon lovers worldwide. What makes Dave’s work even more remarkable is how he’s restoring history. In a world where LEDs are replacing everything, he believes in the craftsmanship of gas-filled glass tubes. "You can’t replicate that hum or flicker with modern lights," he often says.

He’s also training younger artists and design students, helping to keep the neon spirit alive. His workshop hosts classes in retro light design. From Soho to Shoreditch, Dave the Rave is a known figure. People affectionately call him when they spot neon signs being abandoned. He’s the go-to collector of London’s neon soul. Whether you're into retro vibes or just love the glow of neon, Dave’s journey is one to follow.

And in his words, "If it glows, I’m going after it."