Neon Art: Interview with Laura Benetton

Can you share the journey that led you to neon art as a prominent medium in your work? What initially drew you to explore this vibrant form?

My journey into neon art stems from my long-standing fascination with the natural world, particularly the vibrant colours and movements of butterflies and birds. Over the years, I spent a significant amount of time studying these specimens  at the Natural History Museum, where I had the opportunity to closely examine their morphological characteristics, colours, and flight patterns. I became especially intrigued by how the intricate colour spectrum of these species reveals aspects of light and colour that are often invisible in everyday life.

This exploration of flight led me to study the mathematical principles behind it, specifically Bernoulli’s equation of flight. This theory explains how differences in air pressure create lift, allowing birds and butterflies to fly with such grace. The relationship between movement, line, and energy became central to my abstract compositions, which sought to capture the dynamic forces at play in flight.

As I continued to explore these themes, I realised that my work was pushing me to move beyond the two-dimensional canvas. I wanted to express the interplay between light, colour, and movement in a more immersive and vibrant way, which led me to experiment with neon and LED lighting. Neon’s glowing, fluid quality perfectly complemented the dynamic motion I had been studying, allowing me to bring the energetic frequencies of flight and colour into a three-dimensional space.

Incorporating neon has allowed me to deepen my investigation of light and colour frequency, bringing to life the unseen forces I had been observing in nature. The addition of neon and LED lights felt like a natural extension of my work, enhancing the vibrancy and strength of my compositions, and allowing me to explore the relationship between light, colour, and movement in a whole new way.

Your work merges art and science. How do these disciplines influence your approach to creating neon-based art?

Art and science, for me, are two sides of the same coin, each informing and enriching the other. My work with neon is deeply rooted in this fusion, where the precision of scientific principles meets the emotional expressiveness of art. This blend became especially significant when I began studying the structure and behaviour of butterflies and birds at the Natural History Museum. What initially drew me in was their aesthetic appeal—their brilliant colours and graceful movements. However, as I dove deeper into the mechanics behind their flight, I found myself fascinated by the scientific laws that govern their movements, such as Bernoulli's principle.

Science provides the framework for much of my creative process. The mathematical elegance of flight, the way wing structures are designed for efficiency and fluidity, or how light interacts with the surface of butterfly wings—these are elements that captivate me. Understanding the mechanics behind these phenomena gives me a new perspective on how to represent them artistically. In this way, science isn’t just an influence; it’s a tool I use to decode the world around me and transform it into visual form.

On the artistic side, my focus has always been on the sensory experience—how we perceive and feel colour and light. When I began incorporating neon and LED lights into my work, I found they could represent not just movement and energy, but also the frequency and vibration of light itself. Neon gives me the ability to play with light in a way that feels alive, allowing me to push beyond the limits of what can be achieved with paint or traditional mediums. It captures the fleeting, almost invisible qualities of nature that I’ve always been fascinated by.

In combining art and science, I approach each piece not just as a visual creation but as an exploration of natural forces. I look at how scientific concepts, like flight dynamics or the spectrum of light, can be broken down and reimagined in a way that evokes emotion and engages the viewer. Neon is particularly well-suited for this because it allows me to transform complex, intangible ideas—like the unseen forces behind flight or the subtle shifts in colour frequency—into something physical and immersive. This synergy between art and science not only broadens the scope of my work but also deepens my understanding of the world and how we interact with it.

Neon art often conveys energy and intensity. How do you harness these qualities to express your artistic vision?

In my work, neon light serves as more than just an aesthetic choice—it acts as a powerful tool for creating a direct, sensory connection with the viewer. The vibrant energy of neon invites the audience to engage not just visually, but physically, allowing the light to envelop them in a way that creates an immersive experience. This interaction mirrors the scientific practice of taxidermy, where species are carefully classified, labelled, and presented for observation. Just as scientists use lighting and positioning to emphasise the unique characteristics of a specimen, I use neon to spotlight and intensify the essence of my compositions.

The neon light in my work acts like a spotlight, not only reinforcing the defining features of the painting but also elevating its beauty in a way that might otherwise remain subtle or unseen. The glow of neon transforms the artwork, giving it a dynamic presence that shifts with the viewer’s perspective, drawing attention to details and inviting deeper contemplation. It’s a way of magnifying the elements that are central to my vision—colour, light, and movement—while also paying homage to the idea of scientific classification by giving the artwork a sense of importance and discovery.

Your practice spans various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and bio-art. How does working with neon differ from or complement your other artistic endeavours?

Working with neon brings a unique set of challenges and considerations compared to my other mediums like painting, sculpture, and bio-art. Neon requires a high level of logistical planning and precision, as each piece needs to be meticulously mapped out before the installation process even begins. Unlike painting, which allows for a more organic, free-flowing expression, working with neon involves practical, hands-on problem-solving. I have to think ahead about the technical aspects of wiring, electrical connections, and the overall mechanical setup. This includes tasks like cutting wires, testing connections, and troubleshooting the neon itself—skills that require electrical knowledge and attention to detail.

In contrast, painting feels more immediate and intuitive. I can fully immerse myself in the act of creation, working directly with the canvas and acrylic medium without the same logistical demands. The flow is more spontaneous, and it allows me to express myself freely, responding in real-time to colour, form, and emotion.

Bio-art, particularly working with living organisms like bacteria and bioluminescence, introduces yet another layer of complexity. In these projects, the challenge is not just technical but also biological. It requires me to create the right conditions for life to grow, where every second and every millilitre of material can impact the outcome. The process is delicate and feels more human in a way—tied to the notion of nurturing life and working with natural systems. It’s a practice that brings a sense of fragility and unpredictability, where I must adapt constantly to the changing conditions in the lab.

In a sense, each medium presents its own unique challenges and learning curves. Neon combines practicality and artistic expression in a different way than painting, while bio-art introduces the concept of working with living systems and survival. What unites them all is the level of focus and dedication required, whether it's planning neon installations, painting in the studio, or working in the lab. Each medium offers me the chance to explore new dimensions of creativity, all while pushing me to think critically and technically about my approach.

Could you walk us through the process of creating an installation? What are some of the technical challenges you face?

Creating an installation, particularly one involving neon, is a multi-layered process that requires both creative vision and technical precision. It begins with a clear conceptual idea, but from there, it quickly moves into detailed planning. Neon is a medium that demands a high level of logistical foresight. Every aspect of the installation must be carefully mapped out before any physical work begins, as the electrical components, placement, and structure of the neon elements need to align perfectly with the overall design.

Once I have a solid plan, the technical phase begins. This involves working closely with the neon tubing, which has to be bent into precise shapes. Then comes the electrical work—cutting and connecting wires, testing circuits, and making sure the entire system is functional. This stage requires an understanding of how neon gas and electrical currents interact to create the glowing light, as well as troubleshooting any potential mechanical issues that arise, such as faulty connections or uneven illumination. One of the main challenges I face here is ensuring that the practical aspects of the installation, like power supply and safety, don’t interfere with the aesthetic vision. The wiring needs to be hidden or integrated seamlessly into the artwork, so it doesn’t distract from the visual impact.

At the same time, the neon needs to work harmoniously with other elements in the piece, such as painting or sculpture. This means balancing the intensity of the light with the colours and textures in the rest of the work. I also test how the neon interacts with the surrounding space—whether it casts shadows, creates reflections, or changes in appearance based on the viewer’s angle.

In comparison, painting allows me to express myself more fluidly, while working with neon installations is a more methodical, problem-solving process. Every technical decision can impact the final outcome, from the precision of the wiring to the quality of the neon light. This technical aspect presents constant challenges, but it’s also what makes the medium so rewarding. The neon not only illuminates the space but enhances the work, transforming the viewer’s experience through light, colour, and energy.

How do you balance the aesthetics of neon art with its underlying scientific or conceptual themes?

Balancing the aesthetics of neon art with its scientific or conceptual themes involves a nuanced approach that integrates both visual appeal and deeper meaning. My work with neon art is deeply informed by the scientific principles of light and colour, specifically how different wavelengths correspond to different colours and the phenomena of bioluminescence. My artistic exploration begins with the concept of light as a physical phenomenon. Each colour of neon light corresponds to a specific wavelength of light, which is a fundamental principle in physics. This concept provides a scientific foundation for my work. For example, blue light has a shorter wavelength than red light, and this variation in wavelength affects how colours are perceived and experienced. In each piece, I choose specific neon colours based on their wavelengths to align with the underlying theme or message of the artwork. For instance, if a piece explores themes of energy or transformation, I might select colours with varying wavelengths to symbolise different stages or types of energy. 

This colour choice is not arbitrary; it is carefully considered to enhance the conceptual depth of the piece. The aesthetic impact of neon art is heightened by the interplay of colours and light. By selecting colours that not only create a visually striking effect but also resonate with their scientific properties, I aim to create a visual experience that is both beautiful and intellectually stimulating. For example, using neon colours that stimulate the excitation of particles in bioluminescence can evoke a sense of organic glow and transformation, reflecting natural processes. The process of bioluminescence, where organisms produce light through chemical reactions, serves as a powerful analogy for my work. Just as bioluminescence involves the synthesis of molecules to produce light, my neon artworks involve the manipulation of light wavelengths to create visual experiences that are both scientific and artistic. The glowing effect of neon lights parallels the mesmerising quality of bioluminescent organisms, drawing a connection between natural phenomena and artificial light. By weaving together the scientific aspects of light with artistic expression, I aim to create neon artworks that not only captivate the eye but also provoke thought about the nature of light and its role in our perception of the world. The interplay between colour, light, and concept transforms each piece into a multidimensional exploration of both science and art. 

Can you tell us a bit more about your collaborative project "La – La  Studio" bringing together yourself and English musician Callum Wright?

La – La Studio is a collaborative collective that I founded with English musician Callum Wright, who is known for his work under the alias D/R/U/G/S. Our partnership explored the intersection of art, science, and sound in new and exciting ways. In the  project, "WFP Dance " I created a dynamic visual installation that showcased the intricate patterns of cancerous cells, marked by green fluorescent protein. These visuals were intended to be both striking and intellectually engaging. Callum contributed by crafting bespoke soundtracks that harmonised with the visual components. Together, we aimed to create an immersive experience that transcended traditional artistic boundaries. The combination of his musical landscapes with my visual work was designed to provide a multi-sensory journey that connected viewers with both aesthetic and scientific elements. "WFP Dance"was showcased at Sonar 2024, where it challenged conventional perceptions of art and technology, inviting participants to explore and engage with the microscopic world in a profound and innovative way.

Many of your installations incorporate light in dynamic ways. How do you see light as a tool for communication in your work?

Light is a central element in my installations, and I view it as a powerful tool for communication in several ways. Light helps in shaping narratives and guiding the viewer’s experience. Through dynamic lighting, I can highlight specific aspects of an installation, draw attention to particular details, or create visual pathways that lead viewers through the piece. This storytelling aspect of light allows for a more immersive and engaging experience.  In some  of my works, light interacts with the audience. For instance, some installations respond to movement or touch, creating a dialogue between the viewer and the artwork.  In essence, light is not just a visual element in my installations; it is a communicative force that shapes experiences, conveys emotions, and deepens the conceptual impact of the work. Through its dynamic and multifaceted nature, light becomes an integral part of how I express ideas and connect with viewers.

In your opinion, what is the role of neon art in contemporary society? How does it resonate with today’s cultural or technological landscape?

Neon art fascinates me because it bridges the gap between art and technology. The way neon lights work—through advanced technological processes—mirrors our ongoing fascination with tech and its integration into creative expression. It allows me to explore how art can incorporate and reflect technological progress, creating a dialogue between the two realms. Visually, neon art is incredibly striking. It's bold colours and glowing forms have a way of cutting through the noise of our visually saturated world. In an era where we are constantly bombarded with stimuli, neon’s ability to stand out and make a powerful statement is both captivating and relevant. Culturally, neon art often delves into themes like identity, consumerism, and urban life. It offers a lens through which to critique and reflect on contemporary issues, making it not just an aesthetic choice but a medium for cultural commentary. Moreover, in a time when interactive and immersive experiences are highly valued, neon art's ability to transform spaces and engage audiences on a sensory level aligns perfectly with this trend. It’s not just about creating something visually stunning; it’s about crafting experiences that resonate on a deeper level. Finally, there’s a certain nostalgia associated with neon. It harks back to mid-20th-century aesthetics but is reimagined through a contemporary lens. This revival of retro appeal, combined with modern artistic techniques, creates a unique connection between past and present, making neon art both timeless and current. I feel that  neon art is more than just light and colour. It’s a dynamic reflection of our era—an intersection of art, technology, and culture that continues to evolve and captivate.

Are there any new directions or mediums you're excited to explore that might further integrate neon with other forms of art and science?

I’m excited to delve deeper into the realm of programming and coding as a means to create sensory-based light and touch experiences. My vision involves developing interactive installations where audiences can immerse themselves in expansive spaces and engage with light in real time. This approach allows for a dynamic interaction, making the art more accessible and engaging on multiple sensory levels.

Additionally, I would be really excited about continuing my collaborations with scientists, particularly in the fields of microbiology and microscopy. I find the concept of bio-light—a sustainable alternative to artificial light—extremely compelling. My ongoing journey to create a bio-light lamp, designed to replace traditional neon light tubes in my artwork, has been a challenging yet incredibly rewarding project. Over the course of two years, during my Master's I've been exploring the potential of using marine bacteria as living light sources, which not only bridges art and science but also aligns with contemporary concerns about sustainability and environmental impact.

This project has pushed me to think beyond the conventional boundaries of art, inviting a dialogue between the living and the inanimate, and offering a glimpse into a future where art and nature coexist in harmony. Exploring these new directions allows me to redefine the possibilities of light as a medium, transforming it from a static element into a living, breathing part of the artwork. I’m eager to see how these experiments can further evolve and inspire new forms of artistic expression

How do you envision the future of neon art, both in your own work and in the broader art world?

As we move into an era where technology is increasingly intertwined with our daily lives, I envision a future for neon art that embraces low-consumption lighting technologies like LED, while also pushing the boundaries of what light can represent in art. In the broader art world, I anticipate a shift towards integrating more sustainable and energy-efficient forms of lighting, driven by both environmental concerns and technological advancements.

In my own work, I am deeply interested in exploring light not just as a tool, but as a natural power source. I am particularly intrigued by the anthropological and biological dimensions of light, and how these can be harnessed to create art that is both innovative and environmentally conscious. I imagine a world where light-based art, lamps, and tools are illuminated by living organisms—such as bioluminescent bacteria or algae—highlighting the synergy between art, nature, and science. This approach not only challenges the traditional uses of neon but also reimagines the role of light in art as something that is alive and evolving.

Given that our planet's resources are finite, I believe it is crucial to explore more sustainable directions in art. This could mean developing new technologies that mimic natural light sources, or even creating artworks that are powered by renewable energy. By experimenting with bio-light and other sustainable materials, I hope to contribute to a future where art doesn't just reflect the world around us, but also participates in a dialogue about our planet’s ecological future.

I see the future of neon art as an exciting convergence of tradition and innovation—a space where the glowing allure of neon can coexist with new, eco-friendly technologies, challenging artists to rethink the way we use and perceive light in art.