Keith Sonnier

The only thing cooler than neon is neon meant to obliterate preconceived notions of what sculpture should be. Pioneering artist Keith Sonnier traces his attraction to the luminous material back to his youth in rural Louisiana, where he had a vision of “waves of neon light” one night driving home from a party. He began experimenting formally with the material in 1968. The exhibit “Keith Sonnier: Early Neon” at the Hall Art Foundation location in Reading presents a collection of influential works made between 1968 and 1989. The show is only open to the public by appointment, but in this case, it seems like a hoop worth jumping through. Call 952-1056 to book a slot at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. or 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Saturday or Sunday.