Traditional neon maker and restorer Julia Bickerstaff

Julia Bickerstaff, one of the UK’s last traditional neon makers, has spent 40 years preserving this endangered craft. Her studio, Neoncraft, in West Yorkshire, has produced iconic signs for clients like Fortnum & Mason, Burberry, and Transpennine Express. On August 29, 2024, she held a workshop in Leeds, teaching tubular glass blowing enthusiasts the delicate art of neon making. Bickerstaff’s dedication not only maintains the tradition but also inspires future generations to appreciate and continue the craft. As neon art faces decline, her work remains a vital link to its vibrant past.