Tracey Emin

Tracey Emin is a Contemporary British artist who began her artistic career as part of the Young British Artists with Damien Hirst and Ian Davenport, among other artists. 

Neon is a popular medium to work with amongst contemporary artists; however, no one is more strongly associated with the material than Tracey Emin. Since the 1990s, she has been bending these tubes of light in her own handwriting to brilliantly express intimate feelings, personal confessions, and universal truths. Emin is known for her autobiographical-inspired art. Shamelessly, she uses personal history to direct her work that speaks loudly on topics of taboo, like unreported rape, public humiliation, sexism, botched abortions, alcoholism, promiscuity, sex, and love. 

Tracey Emin's art is controversial and provocative as it challenges societal norms and encourages viewers to confront their biases and assumptions within oneself. Her distinct body of work uses drawing, painting, and installation, which has garnered critical acclaim and popular appeal. In a world where boundaries are constantly shifting and evolving, Tracey Emin reminds us that art has the power to transcend limitations and connect us to our shared humanity.

“Neon is emotional for everybody, the neon and argon gases make us feel positive, that’s why you have neon at funfairs, casinos, red-light districts, and bars. It’s also to do with the way it electronically pulsates around the glass, it’s a feel-good factor. Neon can help people who suffer from depression.”