Meet Dave the Rave — an iconic figure in East London’s urban scene. Dave isn't your typical collector — he’s a obsessed lover of neon signs that once lit up clubs across the UK. Since the '80s, Dave has been searching in market stalls, tracking down authentic neon signs. He often shares stories about how he fell in love with 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 massive. He preserves 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 faded charm of their heyday. Each piece tells a chapter of London’s history — and Dave is the archivist. He says, neon signs are "ghosts of the night." They’re not just lights, they’re living art of a disappearing cityscape.

Dave doesn't just collect for himself. He’s also been featured in urban heritage projects, donating pieces for curation. His Instagram, full of glowing snapshots and stories, has become a hub for neon lovers worldwide. What makes Dave’s mission even more remarkable is how he’s restoring London’s past. In a world where LEDs are replacing everything, he believes in the craftsmanship 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 lighting enthusiasts, helping to continue the legacy. His workshop hosts classes in retro light design. From Soho to Shoreditch, Dave the Rave is a beloved figure. People affectionately call him when they spot neon signs being ripped down. He’s the go-to rescuer of London’s neon soul. Whether you're into design or just love the mystique of neon, Dave’s journey is pure inspiration. And in his words, "If it glows, I’m going after it.

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