Space Invader in Paris: A Street Art Hunt

Space Invader taking over Paris!

Have you ever strolled through Paris and noticed colorful mosaics or pixelated characters? They’re Space Invaders, though many don’t realize what they’ve seen. These mosaics are everywhere—tucked into street corners, on bridges, and even on monuments like the Eiffel Tower.

I’ve been obsessed with these hidden gems for years. Hunting them down has become my favorite way to explore the city. I can’t walk through Paris without glancing up or looking back, hoping to spot a new one. With over 1,400 scattered across the city, each discovery feels like a small victory.

But if you’ve seen these little pixel art pieces and wondered, What are they? Who made them? Why are they here?—you’re not alone. Let’s break down the story behind this fascinating, worldwide street art project and see why it’s captured the hearts of people like me across the globe.

And I also share how you can turn your next walk in Paris into a fun treasure hunt!

The Beginning: The first Space Invasion

The first Space Invader mosaic appeared in Paris in 1998. The mysterious artist, known only as Invader, chose pixelated characters from the 1978 video game Space Invaders as his inspiration. For those who grew up in the ’80s or ’90s, these designs trigger nostalgia—a throwback to early arcade games and their blocky graphics.

But unlike most street art, these pieces aren’t painted or spray-canned. Invader creates them using small, colorful tiles arranged into mosaics. And each one of these “invasions” is carefully documented and cataloged.

Invader: The Artist is a Mystery

One of the intriguing aspects of the Space Invader project is that no one knows who Invader is. He operates under a pseudonym, carefully hiding his identity despite his growing fame.

What we do know: Invader is a classically trained artist who has managed to remain anonymous for over 25 years. And there is almost no week, where he is not installing at least one new Space Invader Art somewhere in the world.

He does have a small team, but he essentially is working alone. Space Invader is a one artist work.

How Invader took over Paris—and the World

Invader isn’t an art project that is limited to Paris. While the artists’ work is most concentrated here, Invaders reach is global. Over the years, he has “invaded” more than 80 cities across 30 countries.

You’ll find his pieces in New York, Tokyo, Kathmandu, Los Angeles, underwater in the Cancun Bay in Mexico, and even in space on the International Space Station (ISS).

Invader’s project is part art, part treasure hunt, and part urban intervention. Each mosaic is strategically placed, mostly unauthorized, and blending into the architecture of cities worldwide.

Some are small and easily missed, while others—especially newer ones—can be enormous.

The Flash Invader App: A Treasure Hunt for Art

As someone who’s fallen in love with these pieces, I can tell you it’s addictive. It started small—I’d spot a couple during casual walks around Paris or while sightseeing.

Soon enough, I found myself actively hunting them, especially after I downloaded the Flash Invaders App. Now, it even happens that plan entire cycling routes through Paris, mapping out paths to capture as many Invaders as possible along the way.

The app is a game designed by Invader himself, and it’s fairly simply. All you need is a smartphone and an internet connection. And the best: It’s one of the free things you can do in Paris.

And once you spot an invader in the wild, to open the app and flash it. Done. It will be added to your personal collection, together with a score.

Tip: If you are not sure how to stay connected while in France, check out Gigsky. I used them on my recent trip, and it was cheap & reliable.

It’s incredibly engaging, and now that I’m hooked, I find myself noticing so much more around me. I no longer just walk from point A to point B—I’m always looking around, actively scanning my surroundings.

Because of this, I’ve discovered spectacular street art in Paris that I would have completely missed before. But it’s not just art—I’ve started noticing charming details on buildings, quirky little additions, and lovely window decorations.

The city feels full of hidden gems, all waiting to be found.

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Tip: It’s a very engaging activity for kids and teenagers as well. Maybe these guides are helpful for you as well:

• 17 Fun Things To Do in Paris With Kids (2024)
• Paris with Teenagers: 51+ Fun Activities & Tips from a Local Mom

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There’s a whole community of “flashers” like me, constantly scouring the streets for new mosaics. Whenever Invader posts about a new location —typically on Facebook or Instagram — you can be sure many are out trying to catch it asap.

I don’t wanna brag, ok, maybe a little, but In Paris alone, I’ve scanned over 500 pieces. However, my collection stretches beyond one city. I’ve tracked down Invaders in New York, Amsterdam, and Tokyo, where the mosaics blend beautifully into entirely different urban landscapes.

Here are my scores:

Wrap Up: Space Invaders

Space Invaders have transformed how I see and experience Paris. What started as a playful hunt for pixelated mosaics turned into a deeper appreciation for the city’s vibrant street art and hidden details.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Paris through the lens of these Invaders offers a unique way to engage with the city, turning everyday walks into exciting treasure hunts.

Next time you’re wandering through Paris, look up, and you might just spot a new Invader. And who knows? It could be the start of your own obsession.

Don’t hesitate and follow my profile on the app, it’s salutfromparis