"City of Lights" Keith Macgregor Photo Exhibition

Highlights

Presented by Blue Lotus Gallery, "City of Lights" is an extensive exhibition featuring a vast, previously unseen archive by photographer Keith Macgregor. These photographs document Hong Kong's neon-drenched skyline during the 1990s and 2000s—an era when neon signage defined the city's unique visual identity. The exhibition serves as both a photographic archive and a heartfelt tribute to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

Program

Keith Macgregor admits that he once took neon for granted, viewing it merely as "urban wallpaper" rather than the intricate fusion of creativity, engineering, and imagination that it truly was. Through hundreds of vivid, previously unseen images, he captures the restless energy of a city defined by its illuminated streets. At its height in the 1980s, Hong Kong boasted over 100,000 neon signs; today, fewer than 400 remain. This exhibition arrives at a critical juncture, emphasizing the urgent need to document and preserve this vanishing heritage, reflecting a growing collective desire to reconnect with a defining chapter of the city's visual history.

Beyond the visuals, the project highlights the human stories behind the glow. It features insights from master benders, high-altitude installers, and preservationists fighting to keep the craft alive. The exhibition also reflects on the inevitable flux of urban evolution—the bittersweet reality of seeing storefronts change and businesses, like the iconic Sammy's Kitchen, close their doors. Crucially, the narrative is one of transformation; it showcases how a new generation of creators, such as artist Jive Lau, is reimagining neon for the modern age, ensuring the city's neon spirit continues to shine.

Venue & Access

The exhibition is held at Blue Lotus Gallery. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport.

Ticketing

Admission is free to the public.