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Invader Pixel Art: A Mosaic Invasion of Marseille

Discover Marseille through the whimsical mosaics of Invader, a street artist who has transformed the city into an open-air art gallery with his pixelated Space Invaders.

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Embark on an urban treasure hunt through the vibrant streets of Marseille, seeking out the whimsical mosaics of Invader, a French street artist who has 'invaded' the city with his pixelated creations. Inspired by the iconic 1970s video game Space Invaders, these colorful tile mosaics add a playful and unexpected dimension to Marseille's architecture, transforming ordinary street corners into open-air art galleries. With nearly a hundred mosaics scattered throughout the city, from the historic Old Harbour to the bustling Cours Julien, discovering Invader's art becomes an engaging way to explore Marseille's diverse neighborhoods and uncover hidden gems. Keep an eye out for mosaics depicting regional themes, local icons, and even tributes to Marseille's Mediterranean culture, all contributing to the city's unique artistic landscape. Download the 'Flashinvaders' app to track your finds and join the global community of Invader enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Invader Pixel Art

  • 6 Pl. du Château Joly, Marseille, 13002, FR
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Download the 'Flashinvaders' app to track your finds, earn points, and compete with other players in the global Invader community.
  • Explore beyond the main tourist areas to discover hidden mosaics in Marseille's diverse neighborhoods like Le Panier and Cours Julien.
  • Keep an eye out for mosaics that incorporate regional themes, local icons, and tributes to Marseille's Mediterranean culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Invader Pixel Art is spread throughout Marseille, particularly concentrated in the 1st, 2nd, and 7th arrondissements. From the Vieux-Port (Old Port), a central transport hub, head north into Le Panier district or towards the Mucem museum. From the Joliette metro station, walk south towards the city center. The mosaics are integrated into the urban landscape, so keep an eye out on building facades, street corners, and unexpected places as you explore. No special transport is needed, but comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the city on foot.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving at Marseille Saint-Charles train station, take the Metro Line 1 towards Vieux-Port. From there, you can begin your walking tour of Invader's mosaics. Alternatively, several bus lines service the areas where the art is located. Check the RTM (Régie des Transports Métropolitains) website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ticket (Ticket Solo) costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour of travel on the metro, bus, or tram. Consider purchasing a multi-trip pass (Carte 10 Voyages) for €16 for more extensive exploration.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Marseille. A short taxi ride from Marseille Saint-Charles train station to the Vieux-Port typically costs between €10-€15, depending on traffic. From there, you can begin your search for Invader's mosaics on foot. While convenient, using taxis or ride-sharing for the entire exploration can be costly, so consider combining it with walking and public transport.

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Discover more about Invader Pixel Art

Invader Pixel Art represents a unique layer of urban exploration within Marseille, a city already renowned for its rich history and vibrant street culture. The art itself consists of mosaics crafted from colorful tiles, meticulously placed to form pixelated images reminiscent of the classic 1970s video game, Space Invaders. These mosaics, the work of a French artist known only as Invader, are strategically installed throughout the city, transforming ordinary walls and street corners into unexpected canvases. Invader's project began in Paris in the late 1990s and has since spread to cities worldwide, with Marseille becoming one of the most heavily 'invaded' locations. The artist's choice of the Space Invaders theme is deliberate, tapping into a sense of nostalgia and playfulness that resonates with a broad audience. The pixelated aesthetic also creates a striking contrast with the traditional architecture of Marseille, adding a contemporary twist to the city's visual landscape. Discovering Invader's mosaics in Marseille is akin to embarking on an urban treasure hunt. The artworks are scattered throughout the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the historic Old Harbour (Vieux-Port) to the trendy Cours Julien and the colorful Le Panier district. This distribution encourages visitors to explore beyond the main tourist areas and delve into the authentic heart of Marseille. Each mosaic is unique, reflecting the artist's creativity and the specific context of its location. While many feature the classic Space Invaders characters, others incorporate regional themes, local icons, and even tributes to Marseille's Mediterranean culture. This adds a layer of depth to the project, transforming it from a simple art installation into a commentary on the city's identity. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Invader's mosaics also serve as a catalyst for community engagement. The artist has created a 'Flashinvaders' app that allows users to track their finds, earn points for each mosaic they discover, and compete with other players around the world. This gamified approach has fostered a global community of Invader enthusiasts who actively seek out and share images of the artworks. The presence of Invader's mosaics in Marseille has also sparked debate about the role of street art in urban spaces. While some view the artworks as a form of vandalism, others celebrate them as a creative expression that enhances the city's character and attracts visitors. The city of Marseille itself has generally adopted a tolerant stance towards Invader's project, recognizing its cultural value and its contribution to the city's artistic landscape. For visitors to Marseille, seeking out Invader's mosaics offers a unique and engaging way to experience the city. It's an opportunity to explore diverse neighborhoods, discover hidden gems, and connect with a global community of art enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned street art aficionado or simply looking for a fun and unconventional activity, the 'invasion' of Marseille by Invader Pixel Art is sure to leave a lasting impression. The best way to experience Invader's art is to simply wander the streets of Marseille with your eyes peeled. However, there are also several resources available to help you in your quest. The 'Flashinvaders' app is a valuable tool for tracking your finds and competing with other players. You can also find maps and guides online that pinpoint the locations of known mosaics. Remember that the artworks are constantly evolving, with new mosaics appearing and old ones disappearing over time, so be prepared for surprises along the way. Invader's work in Marseille is more than just street art; it's an urban intervention that transforms the way people interact with their environment. By injecting playfulness and creativity into the everyday, Invader has created a unique and engaging experience that resonates with locals and visitors alike. So, grab your phone, download the app, and get ready to explore the mosaic invasion of Marseille!

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