This project transforms an original piece of graffiti into an illuminated artwork. Using a standard LED strip, I cut, rerouted, and hand-soldered individual segments to recreate the flowing spray-paint strokes of the original design, creating the appearance of a continuous neon sign. The project combines electrical assembly, fabrication, and design to preserve a spontaneous, freehand work of art in a more permanent medium.

Creating a brick backdrop that captured the original beaten and flawed character of the wall proved to be the most challenging aspect of Co-create. But, done correctly, a wall proxy for the light would provide the piece with texture and context that could be a story in itself, rather than background. At first, I experimented with using air-dry clay and a wood backing. But, as the clay proved difficult to work consistently and adhered poorly to the wood, I pivoted to a fully 3D-printed solution. I modeled the brick wall digitally and then split the pattern into 6 panels to create a seamless "brick" surface.

After modeling the wall digitally, experimenting with different print orientations, and gluing the 6 wall panels together, I painted the backdrop with an acrylic base coat. I then used spray paint to re-create the graffiti on the wall, using light clips to clip the cut-up LED strip pieces into paint strokes. After hand-soldering the light strip and concealing the wiring, Co-create was complete.