Behind Neon Lights.
Infographic Poster 18x24
Adobe Illustrator
September 2023
I created a step-by-step poster explaining how neon signs are made, using only hand-drawn icons and a two-color palette to ensure clarity and accessibility. The goal was to make the process easy to follow, even for someone unfamiliar with the topic. To set the tone, I designed the poster’s title to resemble a glowing neon sign, instantly establishing a visual connection to the subject matter. The imagery of a neon sign’s cord served as a guiding element, weaving through each step of the process, from the initial design of the neon tubing to the intricate bending and gassing stages. The cord created a seamless flow across the poster, with the final step—plugging in the sign—bringing the process full circle and reinforcing the theme of connectivity.
The challenge was to design icons that effectively conveyed each step without relying on text, emphasizing a strong visual hierarchy and simplicity. The limited two-color palette not only enhanced the clarity of the icons but also captured the aesthetic of neon signs, keeping the design cohesive and visually engaging. Each element was carefully crafted to balance creativity with functionality, ensuring the poster was both informative and dynamic. This project was an exploration of visual storytelling, combining clear communication with creative design to make an educational process feel approachable and exciting.
To enhance the design and create a stronger connection to the subject, I added a glowing effect to the key elements of the poster. This subtle glow mimicked the appearance of illuminated neon signs, adding texture and depth to the overall composition. The glow brought the icons and title to life, making them feel more dynamic and engaging while reinforcing the theme of neon light. By integrating this effect, I was able to replicate the soft, radiant quality that is characteristic of neon signs, bridging the gap between the illustrated elements and the physical object they represented.