About
Neon Lab is owned and operated by Thomas Zickuhr. Thomas has been a neon glass blower for nearly 20 years, but has been an active artist his entire life. After finishing his degree in Fine Art/Sculpture from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Tom moved to Boulder Colorado and took on an intensive on the job training/apprenticeship in neon that lasted four years. After the foundation for neon had been set down, he, his wife Kristine, and their dogs moved to Madison, WI where Tom continued to learn and grow in the craft of neon. Thomas also studied and practiced design and animation, and continues to work and create in all three fields.
In 2010, Thomas was contacted by longtime friend and fellow glass worker Denis Eckstein about purchasing Neon Lab, which had been established in 1999.
Putting his life savings on the line, Tom did not hesitate to take on this opportunity.
Along with running Neon Lab, Thomas also teaches Neon: Light as Sculpture at the University of Wisconsin Madison. A fine art based neon program that puts emphasis on the creative side of glass blowing and neon being used as sculpture. Tom has facilitated and curated many shows through the university for students and professional artists alike.
Thomas currently has original artwork in the Milwaukee Art Museum, as well has shown work at MOMA New York City, MOMA San Francisco, and the Schaulager Art Museum - Basil, Switzerland. Tom was fortunate to be included as one of three current glass benders to work with Bruce Nauman, a contemporary Amercian artist.
Neon Lab is going strong, it is a small operation with a big heart. Thomas is dedicated to the craft of neon and is working to ensure it's future is bright and colorful. He also has a new assistant, Autumn Falk. She took his Neon class at UW - Madison 4 times before graduating with an Art Education Degree. She now works at Neon Lab and is excited to learn more about the world of neon.
