Step into the world of Dave the Rave — an iconic figure in London’s retro scene. Dave isn't your average collector — he’s a obsessed lover of neon signs that once lit up shops across the UK. For years, Dave has been searching in demolished buildings, looking for authentic neon signs. He remembers 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 stores his finds in a converted warehouse studio in Hackney, filled wall-to-wall with glowing signage from the '50s through to the early 2000s. Some signs are fully restored; others retain the faded charm of their golden era. Each piece tells a fragment of London’s history — and Dave is the storyteller. According to him, neon signs are "urban jewellery." They’re not just lights, they’re living art of a rapidly-changing cityscape.

Dave doesn't keep for himself. He’s also been featured in local galleries, neon signs loaning pieces for cultural education. His Instagram, full of glowing snapshots and stories, has become a hub for neon lovers worldwide. What makes Dave’s work even more admirable is how he’s preserving history. 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 mentoring younger artists and lighting enthusiasts, helping to carry the flame. His workshop hosts classes in neon bending. From Soho to Shoreditch, Dave the Rave is a beloved figure. People still call him when they spot neon signs being tossed out. He’s the go-to collector of London’s neon soul. Whether you're into retro vibes 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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