Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a rare, iconic promotional poster for the Museum of Neon Art (MONA) featuring a stylized, airbrushed Mona Lisa overlaid with actual, functional 3D neon tubing. Designed by MONA co-founder and renowned neon artist Lili Lakich, this piece brilliantly bridges the gap between classical art, commercial signage, and fine art.
Story
In 1981, artist Lili Lakich co-founded MONA in Los Angeles to rescue historic neon signs and elevate neon to fine art. This poster, featuring her signature 'Mona' design, became the defining image of the museum's grand opening.
Maker / Origin
Lili Lakich is a pioneering American sculptor who helped establish neon as a respected medium for fine art in the 1970s and 80s. Her work has been exhibited globally, and her co-founding of MONA created the world's first museum dedicated solely to electric media art.
Condition & Value
The poster appears to be in good vintage condition, housed in a simple black frame. The neon tubes are fully illuminated and functional, which is critical for value. Any fading to the poster or chips in the glass tubes would reduce the value by 30-50%.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.