qargo

qargo is an innovative artist who specializes in using LEGO® bricks as his primary artistic medium. Taking inspiration from Masahiro Hara, the creator of the QR code, qargo bridges the gap between the digital and physical realms through his artwork. His guiding principle, "real to virtual thru bricks," encapsulates his commitment to creating a one-of-a-kind, interactive, and engrossing experience by integrating QR codes into his pieces. Prior to pursuing his passion for art, qargo enjoyed a successful career as an entrepreneur and investor in the French-Tech industry. He describes his art as a visual narrative that serves as a genuine expression of his inner child. Each mosaic he creates embodies the principles that hold significance for him, such as resilience, loyalty, respect, determination, perseverance, authenticity, boldness, humility, and more.

How does your background shape your work?

My background is marked by a duality between technology and creativity. As a former entrepreneur in the French-Tech scene, I have been deeply immersed in the digital world, which has shaped my approach to art. This experience instilled in me a fascination for innovation, which is now reflected in my use of LEGO® and QR codes as artistic mediums. My work is a bridge between my childhood, filled with the simplicity of building games, and my current commitment to exploring new forms of expression. The pixel, rooted in my memories of video games, has become the central motif of my work, a metaphor for how each small piece contributes to the whole.

Which artists have had the biggest impact on your work?

More than individual artists, it is concepts and cultures that have influenced my work. Japanese culture, with its precision and sense of innovation, has always been a deep source of inspiration for me. Meeting Masahiro Hara, the inventor of the QR code, was a decisive turning point, inspiring my fusion of tangible and digital art. The pixel art movement, embodied by pioneers of video games like "Space Invaders," has also profoundly influenced my approach

What is your favorite form of artistic expression?

Without a doubt, LEGO®. They embody a fascinating paradox for me: a child's game transformed into a powerful artistic instrument. Each brick is a building block of my own story, each QR code constructed in LEGO® is a bridge between the real and the virtual, an invitation to discovery and interaction.

Where do you find inspiration?

My inspiration comes from childhood, nostalgia, and innovation. LEGO® is a reminder of the innocence and limitless creativity of childhood, while QR codes represent modernity and interactivity. Each piece is a celebration of iconic personalities who have marked my life, a dialogue between past and present, between analog and digital.

Describe how art is important to society.

Art is both a mirror and a bridge. It reflects society in its many facets and creates connections between individuals beyond words and borders. Through LEGO® and QR codes, my work invites a participatory experience, engaging the viewer in an exploration that is both playful and introspective. Art has the power to spark conversations, raise awareness, and remind us of fundamental human values.

How do you define success as an artist?

Success, to me, lies in authenticity and the ability to touch others. When my works resonate with viewers, prompting them to think or simply to feel, I feel accomplished. It is also the feeling of having transformed a childhood dream into a tangible reality, where each "legotized" QR code is a victory over the limits of imagination.

Does art help you in other areas of your life?

Absolutely. Art is my compass, a means of expression that transcends words. It helps me channel my energy and find a balance between the rigor of the entrepreneurial world and creative freedom. It's also a form of meditation, a way to reconnect with my inner self and share universal messages.

How do you develop your art skills?

It's a process of constant exploration and iteration. Each project is an opportunity to learn and experiment with new techniques, whether in the manipulation of LEGO® or the integration of QR codes in increasingly creative ways. Interactions with figures like Masahiro Hara also enrich my practice, expanding the horizons of what art and technology can achieve together.

How can your work affect societal issues?

My work aims to create bridges between worlds, whether it’s linking the physical to the digital or engaging in intergenerational dialogue. By using a familiar medium like LEGO® and an omnipresent technology like the QR code, I hope to make contemporary art more accessible and invite reflection on how technology shapes our lives and interactions.

How do you navigate the professional art industry?

The art industry is a complex universe where authenticity must coexist with market demands. My approach is to stay true to my vision while being open to collaborations and exchanges with galleries and collectors who share my passion for innovation. Encounters, like the one with Masahiro Hara, are milestones that encourage me to move forward with conviction

What are your favorite and least favorite parts of professional art?

I love the creative freedom that art offers, the possibility of giving form to ideas and eliciting emotions. What I like less is the market's tendency to sometimes prioritize commercialization over authenticity. To me, the artwork must remain a sincere expression before being a commercial object.

What have critics and collectors said about your work?

Critics and collectors perceive my work as a bold and innovative fusion of art and technology. They appreciate the interactive aspect of my pieces, which go beyond mere observation to offer an engaging experience. The use of LEGO® as a medium is often seen as a refreshing approach, combining nostalgia and modernity.

What factors influence the price of your work?

The price of my works is influenced by several factors: the complexity of the construction, the number of pieces used, the time devoted to each creation, as well as the interactivity and uniqueness of the piece, especially with the integration of QR codes. Each piece is unique, numbered, and signed, giving it a particular value.

What are your ultimate career goals?

My ultimate ambition is to create a lasting bridge between contemporary art and the public, making art accessible and interactive. I also wish to continue exploring the possibilities offered by technology, particularly AI and QR codes, to push the boundaries of artistic creation. Finally, I want to leave a legacy that inspires future generations to look beyond conventions.

How do you manage a work-life balance as an artist?

Art is an integral part of my life; it is a reflection of my being. However, it's crucial to find a balance to nurture inspiration and avoid burnout. I allow myself moments of pause, travel, and meetings, which are all sources of personal and professional enrichment.

What's your message for the other artists?

Stay true to your vision, even if it is at odds with current trends. Art is a quest for self, an exploration of what makes you unique. Don't be afraid of innovation, as it is in boldness that the works that make a mark are born. And above all, never forget to take pleasure in the creative process, for that is where the true essence of art lies.

Uncover the brilliance of qargo's amazing work. For an extra dose of inspiration, make sure to visit his profile and explore his stunning creations.