An eclectic assortment of neon art created for iconic films, television shows, music videos and cultural events will take center stage at the one-day specialty sale hosted by Abell Auction Co.
Hosted by Abell Auction Co., the sale will spotlight highly coveted neon props created by Schulte for iconic films, television shows, music videos, and major cultural events. Many of these works were commissioned discreetly, with the production name revealed only upon public release. Over time, Schulte’s signature works became defining elements of visual storytelling—both on screen and on stage.
“Lisa Schulte is not only a pioneer in neon art—she’s an artist whose work has shaped the visual language of pop culture for decades,” said Abell Vice President Todd Schireson. “This auction offers a unique opportunity for collectors and fans to acquire pieces that have influenced how neon art is seen, understood, and appreciated today.”
For decades, Schulte has been a go-to source for set decorators and creatives seeking original neon pieces for major films like “Batman,” “Spider Man” and “Chinatown,” as well as television hits including “Friends,” “Abbott Elementary,” and “Tattoo.” She also has created custom pieces for music icons Mariah Carey, Backstreet Boys, Prince, Michael Jackson and Lenny Kravitz for their performances and promotional visuals. Plus, her work has illuminated major cultural moments, including the 1984 Olympic Games and early Burning Man art and culture festivals.
While Schulte’s name is now synonymous with neon, her artistic journey began with a moment of unexpected transformation. At age seven, she lost her sight due to an eye injury. When her vision returned, she experienced the world, and especially light, with profound intensity. That early encounter sparked her lifelong fascination with illumination and inspired her to choose neon as her medium.
“I consider myself both a craftsperson and an artisan,” said Schulte. “With every curve of glass and burst of color, I challenge myself to push beyond what neon has done before. I began my career creating functional pieces, but quickly realized that neon could be a powerful emotional and visual language. This auction isn’t just about the objects—it’s a celebration of the creativity, experimentation and stories that live inside each piece.”
Interested buyers are invited to register in advance and preview auction items at www.abell.com. All pieces will be stored and sent to auction at the Nights of Neon studio located at 13815 Saticoy St. in Panorama City, Calif., 91402. An auction preview will be held at that location in August. More information to come
Be sure to watch our full video featuring acclaimed journalist and media personality Julie Chang in an exclusive one-on-one interview with Nights of Neon’s Lisa Schulte.