Gauntlet Gallery — Invader Print Index
Invaderoma - Mosaic Book Cover (First Edition)
Summary
The first-edition Invaderoma (2010) is a hardcover monograph whose cover carries a real micro-mosaic of ceramic tiles. Bilingual in English and Italian, it was issued through Space Shop in a signed and numbered edition of 60, documenting Invader's invasion of Rome.
Why It Matters
Invaderoma is the fourth in Invader's series of invasion guides, each mapping his campaign in a given city. This deluxe edition is exceptional because its cover is not a printed image but an actual mosaic, making the book itself a tactile Invader object rather than merely a catalogue of them.
Collector Perspective
An edition of just 60, signed and numbered, with a handmade mosaic cover puts this among the more coveted Invader books. It functions as both reference and artwork, and its dual role, publication plus tile relief, gives it standing beyond the trade edition of the same guide. Condition of the mosaic surface is key.
Historical Context
Invader's invasion guides form a running archive of his global campaign; Invaderoma records Rome specifically, alongside the 2010 sticker-parody prints and kits. The mosaic-cover format elevates the artist's documentary impulse into a limited object, part book, part sculpture, tied firmly to his Roman year.
FAQ
What is Invaderoma?
It is the fourth of Invader's invasion guides, documenting his mosaic invasion of Rome, published bilingually in English and Italian.
What makes the first edition special?
Its hardcover is set with a real micro-mosaic of ceramic tiles, and each copy is signed and numbered.
How many copies exist?
The limited first edition runs to 60 signed and numbered copies.
Is it a book or an artwork?
Both. It is a functional monograph whose handmade mosaic cover makes it a collectible object in its own right.
About the Artist
Invader (born 1969, France) is a pseudonymous French urban artist known for installing mosaic works inspired by 1970s-80s arcade video games, most famously the aliens from Space Invaders. Since the late 1990s he has "invaded" cities worldwide, cementing tile mosaics onto walls and mapping each installation as part of a global game. His studio output extends the pixel aesthetic into prints, "Rubikcubism" works made from Rubik's Cubes, aluminum pieces, and alias-signed editions. He remains anonymous, appearing publicly only masked.
Collecting Invader at Gauntlet Gallery
What Invader works can I collect?
Beyond street mosaics, Invader releases signed, numbered editions — screenprints, giclées, aluminum and Rubikcubism works — plus his "Invasion Kits." Signed and numbered studio editions are the collectible core. Gauntlet Gallery focuses on complete, well-preserved impressions with documentation.
How is an Invader piece authenticated?
We sell Invader works with documented provenance and the edition's signature and numbering. Each piece is photographed exactly as it ships, including signature and edition details, so you can verify before buying.
What drives value?
Medium (unique Rubikcubism and aluminum works over open prints), edition size, iconic imagery, condition, and provenance all shape price. Hand-made and low-numbered pieces command the strongest premiums.