Admission: we really, really like neon signs. Neon lights are a top five reason to visit Miami Beach. Luckily, Patrick Martinez also likes neon, and he’s made some really awesome artworks that combine neon signs and ‘hood messages.

Martinez is best known for his luscious and bright Los Angeles-based paintings, but this project, called Lovely Day, centres on his lightworks.

Still strongly linked with Los Angeles, Martinez says this of the project: “It's crazy to me that I wake up to beautiful days here in LA, but they are juxtaposed with the ‘evil’ things that happen in this sublime city. That’s the inspiration for the show.”

We really like the ‘Get Cake Homie’ piece, as well as the floral ‘Lovely Day’ title work.

Aesthetically, the art is incredibly pleasing. But then there is the underlying symbols and messages too. Double whammy, kids!

Lovely Day by Patrick Martinez is now on at Known Gallery, Los Angeles.