'LA_88' by Space Invader - 2003
American Flag Invader.
8 x 10 Inches
Very Rare mosaic tile work from Los Angeles storefront entrance, concrete wall affixed by the world-famous artist in 2003 (see photos). 136 N. La Brea Ave (former location of Verve Gallery).
Original artwork (#1/1)
Comes mounted to cardboard backing in its original form. See images for overall condition.

**UPDATE** (from the consignor):
I went back and took a look at the original email from when this piece was purchased over 2 years ago. This Invader tile was removed in 2015-2016 and had been up there for over a decade (talk about good spot placement!). The building that housed the 'LA_88' for that entire time is located on La Brea Ave. and at the time of it being removed was in between businesses. The commercial property where this Invader was is a smaller store front that has been used in the past as a location for pop up stores and/or short term leases. What I can assume from the information that I was given is that due to this property changing leases so frequently and being used as a store front, that whenever a new business moved in they want to coordinate the outside of the building to their aesthetic. As I am sure the property owner has been the same since Invader put up 'LA_88', the owner had to have been aware of the piece and must have given direction to avoid painting over it when new businesses were moving in and re-doing the storefront. I hope this helps in achieving a better understanding of this piece and its history.

ARTIST BIO

Invader (French, b.1969), also known as Space Invader, is an Urban artist originally based in Paris. He affixes mosaic images of characters from the 1970s video game “Space Invaders" in cities around the world. Once a work is completed, Invader records it as an "invasion" and creates accompanying maps and reference books to indicate the location of each piece. Invader began these urban, outdoor installations in Paris in 1998, and continued to "invade" 31 other cities in France, followed by an additional 22 cities across Europe. Currently, cities in the United States, Canada, Asia, and Australia are also home to examples of Invader's work.

The mosaics are made using weather-resistant tiles, which represent the pixels used for graphics in early video and computer games. The installation process typically takes at least one week, including scouting, recording, and mapping locations. One of the most conspicuous locations to feature works by Invader is the landmark Hollywood Sign in California; the first mosaic work was mounted on the "D," on December 31, 1999.

In addition to mosaics, Invader creates similarly pixelated works using Rubik’s Cubes. Since 2000, Invader's works have been featured in galleries around the world, and he gained even greater popularity and renown after he was featured in the 2010 documentary film about Street Art, Exit Through the Gift Shop.

Fair-Good (Expected wear/damage from removal process, otherwise very good)

8 x 10 in