It is the 1950's and the Iron Curtain has fallen across Eastern Europe. An idealogical and physical barrier separates countries, cultures and people. For the citizens trapped in the East, this was a visceral shock and violent protests inevitably erupted Although a brutal Soviet back-lash ensued, the authorities knowing they could not stem the tide for long, held urgent conferences in Moscow and Czechoslovakia.

How could the Soviet dream survive the modern world? Could the Eastern Bloc reconcile socialism with its citizens burgeoning demands for greater freedom? What new symbol could project cultural and economic superiority to the world and return hope to the people? The authorities believed they could build a bright new future for the Eastern Bloc with neon. This audacious new plan was quickly adapted and showcased the work of some of the best graphic artists of the day. Suddenly bold and brilliant modernist symbols and unique letter-forms-in threads of neon light - exploded onto the urban landscape.

Nothing would be known of this remarkable untold chapter of 20th century design history were it not for the actions of photgrapher Ilona Karwinska and here partner David Hill. They travelled across the former Eastern Bloc - making a final photographic record of the once dazzling neon revolution.


Photographs by Ilona Karwinska of Cold War Neon signs from Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, GDR, Hungary, Poland, Romania