Neon lighting to activate Geelong night-time economy

NEON artworks are lighting up Central Geelong in a bid to activate outdoor areas and support Greater Geelong’s night-time economy.

The lighting development is thanks to a partnership between the Victorian Government and the City of Greater Geelong and aims to showcase the appeal of Geelong, making it more vibrant for visitors and locals to enjoy.

Artworks involved in the project have been professionally produced by Custom Neon in Newtown and have been installed by local business Lifestyle Electrical.

Local artist Glen Smith is one of the artists thrilled to have his ‘Clare Street’ piece up in lights on The Grace Church in Clare Street.

Smith shared that his piece is a 21st century nod to John Brack’s famous 1955 painting ‘Collins Street, 5pm’ and features figures strolling along the street, leaving neon shadows playing on the walls.

“I wanted to create an artwork that reflects the way Geelong is changing and growing, while also celebrating the joy and colour of our nightlife,” Smith said.

Deputy Mayor and Creative Communities and Culture Chair, Trent Sullivan praised the “really striking artwork” and expressed his excitement about the new project.

“Our local tradespeople normally install neon signs for businesses, so it’s exciting to see their lighting skills used in collaboration with a local artist.”

Sullivan also mentioned the art pieces on show were “a fantastic celebration of the people of Geelong”.

Artist George Rose also completed a neon piece for the project, with his piece cast upon the Busport Building situated on the corner of Clare and Brougham Street.

The neon artwork aims to signify and focus on endemic, rare or endangered floral species found within Greater Geelong.

Flowers are cast in yellow and light green hues, which will no doubt give the Busport Building an extra pop during night-time hours.

Love Central Geelong neon signs have also been installed on Little Malop Street to add extra ambience to Geelong’s popular dining and entertainment precinct, while neon lighting can be spotted on two trees on Clare Street and a tree on the corner of Western Beach Road and Cunningham Street.

The lighting projects are among several infrastructure investments happening across Greater Geelong and are supported by the Victorian Government’s COVID Safe Outdoor Activation Fund.