Say hello to Dave the Rave — a legendary figure in East London’s urban scene. Dave isn't your typical collector — he’s a passionate lover of neon signs that once illuminated shops across the UK. For years, Dave has been scouring junkyards, tracking down discarded 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 ignited a fascination that would soon become a calling.

Dave’s collection is now impressive. He stores his finds in a converted warehouse studio in Hackney, filled wall-to-wall with buzzing signage from the '50s through to the early 2000s. Some signs are fully restored; others retain the raw charm of their original placement. Each piece tells a chapter of London’s history — and Dave is the curator. According to him, neon signs are "London’s tattoos." They’re not just lights, they’re living art of a disappearing cityscape.

Dave doesn't hoard for neon signs himself. He’s also been featured in design expos, lending pieces for public viewing. His Instagram, full of glowing snapshots and stories, has become a hub for neon lovers worldwide. What makes Dave’s work even more inspiring is how he’s preserving design culture. In a world where LEDs are replacing everything, he believes in the true art 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 carry the flame. His workshop hosts classes in neon bending. From Soho to Shoreditch, Dave the Rave is a respected figure. People still call him when they spot neon signs being tossed out. He’s the local rescuer of London’s neon soul. Whether you're into retro vibes or just love the mystique of neon, Dave’s journey is worth discovering.

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

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