NEON SIGNS

Neon Signs

Learning Targets

I can...

• Create original Neon Sign using painting techniques learned in class
• Use fluorescent colors (green, red, orange, yellow), shape variation (geometric, organic), and value (highlights, shadows) inspired by Minimalist Artist (1933-1996) Dan Flavin
• Use scientific connections (electrodes, noble gases, ultraviolet light) and design principles (rhythm, unity, emphasis) based on Installation Art
• Define Sign (a written or symbolic form of displaying information)

Lesson One
Day One, Art Start

1. Untitled 3 (for Leo Castelli at his 30th Gallery Anniversary) (1989) Dan Flavin
2. Listen La Bohema (1896) Giacomo Puccini
3. Discussion Questions "What does a stop sign look like? What does the yield sign look like? Do you know how to cross the street safely to avoid getting hurt? Identify what message the artist was trying to convey. What symbols were used? What effect does it have on them? On the community or country? How does a country's form of government affect the expression and influence of protest art? What time is being shown in the photograph?"

Lesson Activities

1. Choose 12" X 15" Painting Paper
2. Use contour line to add exterior details (stainless steel, art deco, glass trim) to neon sign drawings
3. Add implied texture (glass tube, metal design) to interior design of neon sign drawings

Day Two, Art Start

1. Retrieve Neon Sign for Assigned Table
2. Untitled (To Veronique) (1987) Dan Flavin
3. Discussion Questions "Installation- work occupying or engaging an entire room. Do you consider Dan Flavin's light sculptures a form of art? How did the artist use light effects and differing shapes to interact with viewers? How far can museums depart from historical precedent in its choices when installing works of art? How did Dan Flavin make his "icons" a series of painted canvases using halogen light fixtures?"  

Lesson Activities

1. Use permanent marker to outline the contour lines of the neon sign drawings
2. Add fluorescent colors (red, green, yellow, orange) to positive space (sign, decor) of neon sign drawings
3. Add fluorescent colors (red, green, yellow, orange) to negative space (background, clouds) of neon sign drawings 

Day Three, Art Start

1. Retrieve Neon Sign for Assigned Table
2. Set Up Studio Area (watercolor pencils, water bucket, paintbrush)

Lesson Activities

1. Use value to add highlights (reflective light, moonlight) to neon sign drawings
2. Use value to add shadows (cast shadow) to Dan Flavin Inspired Neon Signs
3. Use metallic colored pencils (silver, platinum, gold) to add finishing details (bolts, decorations, pattern) to Neon Signs

Artist Examples

Student Examples