Tony Labat

Makeover

Tony Labat’s neon sculpture Makeover is a provocative artwork that examines the evolution of cultural symbols and their re-contextualization in contemporary society. In this work, Labat takes the marijuana leaf symbol, a potent icon of counterculture, and gives it a “makeover” by re-presenting it as a large neon sign, typically associated with bars and other consumer advertising. This fusion of imagery reflects the shifting perception of marijuana as it becomes increasingly mainstream and legally accepted, particularly through the rise of dispensaries globally, and particularly in the United States. Labat’s work is a continuation of his broader exploration of signage and symbols, focusing on how they transform over time and acquire new meanings in different contexts. The use of neon lights, a medium associated with commercial advertising, underscores the commercialization of what was once an illicit substance. Makeover invites viewers to reflect on the intersection of culture, commerce, and identity, highlighting the ways in which symbols adapt and evolve in contemporary society.