Conservation and restoration of neon objects

Claude introduced neon technology in Paris, and it later became popular in the United States during the 1920s for use in advertising signage.

The tubing can be bent by a professional glass blower or neon vendor into a variety of shapes to produce different imagery or text.

Noble gases are sealed inside airtight cathode tubes, and produce light when they are electrically excited.

Prominent neon artworks during this time include Jasper Johns' Field Painting (c. 1963–1964), James Rosenquist's Tumbleweed (1963–1966), and Robert Rauschenberg's Green Shirt (1965–1967).

Chryssa, a Greek artist, is largely credited with establishing neon as a visual art form.

The glass tubes and base of neon objects are often packed and transported separately to avoid breakage.

[5] Preparing a condition report of the work after receipt will document if any of the tubes or components were cracked or broken during transit, and can be addressed by a professional prior to display.

Trained professionals may undertake cleaning the work with approved materials such as a feather duster or dry paintbrush.

The use of water or other cleaning liquids may pose a safety hazard due to potential contact with the electrical components.

A professional conservator, specialist, or electrician should be consulted whenever: Cleaning neon objects can also include the components other than the glass tubes.

Some objects are also composed of "metal cans" (particularly historic neon signs) that often serve as backdrops to the tubing.

An electrical engineer or professional should be consulted to identify the voltage type and requirements of the artwork's transformers.

[7] Cracked or damaged neon tubes present potential health risks from contact with broken glass and exposure to mercury, a heavy metal contaminant, in gas form.

If handling is required for removal, barrier gloves, such as nitrile, and protective covering, such an apron or smock, will help avoid potential contamination to personnel.

This may result in a limited display capacity for a neon work, e.g. diminished or intermittent light, a complete loss of function, and could pose safety risks.

It is important to consult an electrical engineer or professional to confirm the voltage type and requirements for the replacement transformer.

[17] Replication differs from Re-fabrication in that the original artwork is not altered, and instead a copy is produced for temporary exhibition purposes.

Bruce Nauman is an artist who requires four criteria be met to replicate his original neon artworks.