The Neon Muzeum returns with the "City Lights" exhibition.

Warszawa 31.07.2025

The Neon Muzeum returns with the "City Lights" exhibition.

From August 1st, the Neon Muzeum welcomes you to the Palace of Culture and Science. After a short closure and relocation, the facility returns with a new exhibition, “City Lights”. This unique museum experience transports visitors to the realities of Warsaw's nightlife in the 1970s – an era considered by many to be the Golden Age of Neon in Poland. The neon exhibition at the Palace of Culture and Science is a unique opportunity to explore the visual heritage of the second half of the 20th century. Neon signs are not only advertising or a vital element of urban spaces, but also represent the history of design, particularly typography. At the exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to take a closer look at neon signs and appreciate the craftsmanship of the creators and artisans of this now-forgotten art form.

Neon signs played a unique role in Polish culture in the second half of the 20th century – they were not only eye-catching advertising media, but also an expression of artistic aspirations and a visual symbol of modernity.

During the communist era, when access to colourful media and modern forms of visual communication was limited, neon signs became an integral part of the urban landscape, adding dynamism and character to cities. Designed by outstanding artists and typographers, they combined functionality with aesthetics, creating works of art that remain awe-inspiring to this day. Neon signs also served a symbolic role, emphasising the country's ambitions for economic and cultural development.

– "City Lights" is more than just an exhibition – it's a journey through time and a meeting place for history and nostalgia, design and craftsmanship, light and the shadows of memory. Its goal is to promote cultural heritage and build public awareness: neon signs are more than advertisements – they are symbols of changing times, society's aspirations, and urban culture,“ says Ilona Karwińska, director of the Neon Muzeum. The exhibition will feature classics such as Berlin, the Szanghaj Restaurant, Syrenka, Bajeczny, the Biedronka Milk Bar, Cepelia, Sezam, and the Jaś i Małgosia Cafe. The corners featuring international neon signs have been expanded, particularly from other Eastern Bloc countries, such as Czechoslovakia and Hungary. A new addition is a store display of period electronics and household appliances. Some neon signs are being shown for the first time – even after renovations, such as the Antylopa in Poznań, the Jubiler in Lublin, and the new neon flowers. Iconic neon signs have also been recreated – the Cow from the Bambino milk bar on Krucza Street and Adria.

– Both the Muzeum's relocation and the organization of the new exhibition were a huge logistical challenge, for which we had less than three months. We are returning with renewed vigor: and will gradually add new neon signs from our collection to the exhibition. Soon we will see the Polfa store in Łódź, the Jubiler store in Lublin, and the Atom store in Tychy. After the summer break, we will also return with tours and an educational program,” announces Ilona Karwińska. The “City Lights” exhibition is located on the fourth floor of the Palace of Culture and Science in the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Hall – access is via the side elevators from the cloakroom level. The exhibition can be viewed from August 1st throughout the week – from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) and 10:00 to 7:00 p.m. (Saturday-Sunday).

The Neon Muzeum is a private institution founded by Ilona Karwińska and David Hill, who have been continuously conducting a project to document and preserve neon signs since 2005. Its results include numerous exhibitions, publications, and renovation projects, and most importantly, the Neon Muzeum, opened in 2012. Its original location was in Warsaw's Kamionek district. The institution has become a unique venue that has been promoting not only Warsaw but also Poland for over a decade – from 2025, it will be in a new location in the very centre of Warsaw.

– We thank the Warsaw authorities and the Palace of Culture and Science for their support. We believe we will fit in well with the New Centre of Warsaw project and continue to promote the capital with renewed energy. The museum in its new location will continue to be a second home for the valuable old neon signs. These signs were created by renowned graphic designers, visual artists, and architects – taking into account the locations for which they were designed. They surprise with interesting shapes and unusual, unheard-of typefaces, and due to their artistic value, they deserve protection,” says Ilona Karwińska.

Witold Urbanowicz
Media Contact: 601 301 103