Step into the world of Dave the Rave — a well-known figure in East London’s urban scene. Dave isn't your typical collector — he’s a passionate lover of neon signs that once glowed across shops across the UK. Since his teenage years, Dave has been scouring market stalls, tracking down discarded neon signs. He often shares stories about how he first noticed neon lights — it all started with a flickering "Open" sign above a fish and chip shop in Bethnal Green. That triggered a fascination that would soon become a obsession.

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 raw charm of their original placement. Each piece tells a chapter of London’s history — and Dave is the archivist. According to him, neon signs are "London’s tattoos." 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 design expos, loaning pieces for public viewing. His Instagram, full of glowing snapshots and stories, has become a hub for neon lovers worldwide. What makes Dave’s mission 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 collaborating with younger artists and design students, helping to continue the legacy. 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 go-to saviour of London’s neon soul. Whether you're into retro vibes or neon signs just love the hum of neon, Dave’s journey is worth discovering. And in his words, "If it glows, I’m going after it.

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