Neon art has become increasingly popular in recent years. The bright, glowing lights are eye-catching and create a fun, vibrant aesthetic. While professional neon sign makers have special equipment to bend and seal glass tubes with neon gas, there are ways for artists to create neon effects with paint. By using the right materials and techniques, you can learn how to paint neon art.
What is neon art?
Neon art is made using electrified, luminous neon tubes that have been bent into shapes and filled with neon or other inert gases. The tubes light up with a brilliant, buzzing glow when an electrical charge excites the gas. Traditional neon signs and lighting use this technology.
Neon art also refers to art that mimics the look of neon using paints that glow under black light. These paints are made from phosphorescent pigments that absorb and emit light. When placed under a black light lamp, also called a UV light, the painted designs glow brightly with neon-like effects.
Supplies needed for painted neon art
To make neon art with paint, you need the following supplies:
– Black light paint – Special neon/UV paint is essential. Look for paint labeled “black light” or “UV.”
– Black light lamp – Also called a UV lamp. Needs to be a special black light bulb that emits UV rays.
– Paintbrushes – Smaller tipped brushes work best for detailed neon designs.
– Paint palette – For mixing paint colors.
– Canvas or wood surface – Black poster board and canvas panels work well.
– Clear acrylic sealer – Used after painting to seal in the neon effect.
– Tape – Can be used to create designs or patterns before painting.
– Paint pens – For adding finer details and outlines.
Choosing black light reactive paints
For bright neon effects, it’s crucial to choose paints designed specifically for black light. Here’s what to look for when buying black light paint:
– Fluorescent glow – Label should indicate paint glows under UV/black light.
– Vibrant neon colors – Such as yellow, green, pink, orange, blue. Avoid earth tones.
– Matte finish – Glow shows up better on flat paint finishes.
– Pigment load – Higher pigment ratio results in brighter glow effects.
– Paint additives – Glow powder can be added to acrylics.
With the right paints, the colors will pop under black light. Lower quality paints won’t glow as brightly.
Preparing the painting surface
A dark background helps the neon colors stand out when the black light is on. Here are some surface options for neon painting:
– Black poster board – Provides an inky black background.
– Black canvas – Stretched canvas painted black works well.
– Dark wood – Can be stained black or dark colors.
– Primed wood – Coated with black gesso before painting.
Apply paints opaquely for best coverage. If needed, do multiple coats to completely block out the background. This makes the glowing effects more pronounced.
Painting techniques and tips
Here are some techniques for creating neon paintings under black light:
– Outline key elements first with a neon paint pen. This helps designs pop.
– Layer colors for a rich, glowing effect. Start with lighter colors.
– Blend and soften edges using a dry brush or foam brush. This diffuses the glow.
– Use masking tape to create sharp lines and geometric patterns.
– Mix in glow powder or gel mediums for an extra neon boost.
– Work in the dark to see the results under black light.
– Apply an acrylic sealer when finished to protect the neon paint.
Take your time when painting to get clean, smooth color coverage. Imperfections will show under the black light.
Neon painting ideas and themes
Here are some ideas for eye-catching black light paintings:
– Neon signs – Mimic classic neon bar and diner signs.
– 80s designs – Use neon rainbows, squiggles, grids, and retro patterns.
– Graphic symbols – Paint glowing stars, lightning, hearts.
– Abstract art – Try bold neon splatters, drips.
– Galaxies – Recreate outer space scenes with planets and stardust.
– Figures – Paint people or animals with neon colored features.
– Letters – Stylize names or words with neon colors.
– Sculptures – Coat 3D forms with neon paints to make them pop.
Let your inner neon artist shine! There are infinite possibilities for creating dazzling works of black light art.
How to display and light neon art
Proper display is key for allowing neon painted art to glow. Here are some tips:
– Hang in a darkened room, black out windows.
– Position a black light bulb 6-12 inches from the art.
– Angle the light to optimize glow effects.
– LED black light strips can also accent the piece.
– Use black frames and mats so neon colors shine.
– Swap out art pieces to keep the exhibit engaging.
– Add neon painted sculptures or 3D elements.
For maximum impact at night, hang black light paintings outdoors and illuminate with a spotlight. The neon will seem to glow magically against the night sky.
Conclusion
With the right supplies and techniques, anyone can channel their inner neon artist. Black light reactive paint opens up a fun new way to create glowing works of art that pop with UV effects. Experiment with vibrant neon colors, patterns, and textures on different surfaces. Just use quality black light paint, prep the surface properly, and light up your creation with a UV lamp. Then get ready to see your artwork shine under the mesmerizing glow of a black light.
