Invader is the pseudonym of a French street artist known for his distinctive pixelated mosaic artworks that reference video game imagery, particularly the 8-bit style of early arcade games like Space Invaders. Born in the early 1960s in France, Invader has built a reputation for creating "space invader" pieces—mosaic tiles in the form of small alien creatures, which are often installed on urban streets and public spaces around the world.
His first work appeared in Paris in 1998, and he quickly became one of the key figures in the street art movement, alongside contemporaries like Banksy and Shepard Fairey. Invader’s mosaics are typically made using ceramic tiles, carefully arranged to form pixelated versions of characters and motifs from video game culture, such as aliens, spaceships, and power-ups. His work often involves creating "invasions" of cities, where he installs these pieces in public spaces—on walls, buildings, and even sidewalks—much like a digital virus infiltrating the real world.
Beyond the street, Invader has exhibited his works in galleries and museums internationally, and his mosaics have become highly sought after by collectors. His distinctive approach to street art, blending the digital and the physical worlds, has made him one of the most influential and recognized figures in contemporary art.
Invader's projects often involve a playful sense of rebellion, as well as a nod to the early days of video games, which resonates with the nostalgia of gaming culture. His works are often anonymous, contributing to the mystery and allure of his public installations.