Chris Bracey is known as the Neon King for good reason. His neon works have appeared behind some of the greatest stars, and his fluorescent masterpieces have been made for numerous prominent patrons. With a cult following in London and LA, his work with light continues to shine from Soho across the World.

Bracey learnt the trade from his father who was a neon signmaker for fairgrounds, circuses and amusement arcades. In the 1950s, at a time of post war gloom and doom the light of neon was more inspiring than ever. Years on and his prolific work has played a significant role in transforming and reinventing the Soho aesthetic. His big break came when a Soho club owner allowed him to make a sign for the venue, at cost price, with the condition that Bracey could design it however he chose. The Pink Pussycat Club set a standard and soon everyone wanted an outrageously alluring Bracey sign.

The recent exhibition “God’s Own Junkyard” exhibits new pieces and archived works from his vast collection, encompassing key pieces from his three decades of work in art, fashion and cinema. Needless to say I completely loved it. On a quiet winter day the Circus of Soho shop window lights up the street so exuberantly that you can’t help but stare into the room of sparkles. There is something undeniably sexy about neon, the piercing glow and magical colours. I have always adored its qualities, so much so that this year I was presented with my own handmade Thoroughly Modern Milly TMM neon sign for Christmas.

The crowded collection at God’s Own Junkyard is utterly compelling and addictive… I couldn’t stop taking photos. “Non Stop Strip”, “Love & Lust”, “Sandwiches and Pastries” they read… neon manages to glamourise everything. Chris Bracey says on the subject: “Like any work of art, it’s got a spirit. Neon is only happy when it’s on, when it’s alive.” God’s Own Junkyard is a glowing place of happiness and excitement, where neon never dies and dreams live on.

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