At NeonWill, we believe light is more than illumination—it’s a creative medium. Our collaboration with Australian contemporary artist Melissa Kellett is a perfect example of how art and programmable neon technology can come together to create something truly alive.
Bringing Waves to Life with Light
For this special project, we worked closely with Melissa to reinterpret one of her iconic beach wave paintings using programmable LED neon technology. The original artwork, celebrated for its sweeping white wave strokes and calming coastal energy, became the foundation for an illuminated installation where light and motion play a central role.
Using custom-programmed neon lighting, the white foam of the waves was transformed into a flowing neon display. The light moves seamlessly across the canvas, mimicking the rhythm of real ocean surf—turning a static painting into a living, breathing artwork.
The result is a striking fusion of traditional painting and modern light design, where technology enhances emotion rather than overpowering it.
Customized Lighting Animations
To fully capture the movement and atmosphere of the sea, NeonWill developed tailored lighting animations, including custom color palettes, transition speeds, and motion effects. In addition to standard lighting options, seven exclusive lighting modes were specially designed for this project:
- Blue–White Gradient
- White Waves
- Blue Waves
- Blue Breathing (gradual brightness transition)
- White Breathing (gradual brightness transition)
- Full Blue
- Full White
Each mode offers a different emotional expression—from calm and meditative to bold and immersive—allowing the artwork to shift mood and energy depending on its environment.
Debut at The Other Art Fair
The illuminated wave artwork debuted at The Other Art Fair from May 11–14, 2023, where it quickly became a standout piece. Visitors were drawn to the gentle motion of the neon-lit waves and the unexpected harmony between fine art and lighting technology.
The installation received enthusiastic acclaim for its originality, with many viewers describing it as both calming and mesmerizing—a testament to the power of light as a storytelling tool.
About the Artist: Melissa Kellett
Melissa Kellett is a Sydney-based artist from the Sutherland Shire, a devoted mother, and an award-winning creative voice. She was honored with the Emerging Artists Award at the 37th Yea Art Show, and her work is known for its uplifting tone and soothing presence.
Working primarily with acrylics and textured mediums on canvas, Melissa paints with a clear intention:
“To paint what brings me joy in the hopes that joy will spread.”
Her art invites viewers to slow down, feel calm, and reconnect with moments of happiness—values that aligned perfectly with NeonWill’s philosophy of emotional light design.
A Shared Vision
This collaboration reflects what NeonWill does best: transforming creative ideas into illuminated experiences. By combining Melissa Kellett’s artistic vision with our programmable neon expertise, we created a project that goes beyond signage—blurring the line between art, design, and technology.
We’re proud to have partnered with Melissa on this project and to showcase how custom neon lighting can elevate artistic expression in new and unexpected ways.
Contact us
Interested in bringing your own creative vision to light? At NeonWill, we specialize in custom illuminated signs and tailored lighting solutions for businesses and art projects. Whether you’re looking for a dynamic neon installation, a striking light sign, or a fully personalized lighting concept, our team is ready to turn your ideas into reality.
Contact us today to discuss your custom neon or lighting project and let your vision shine!
Share:
NeonWill x ValioArt - meow your artistic side