Through this series, he creates crossovers with various pop culture universes, paying homage to characters from literature, manga, video games, comics, TV series, movies, and current events. His unique mosaic artworks can be found in numerous countries, including France, Spain, Italy, Slovenia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, USA, India, Canada, Oman and Croatia. He shares his creations on Instagram under the handle @inthewoup, where he has garnered a following of 20,000.
IN THE WOUP’s art bridges the gap between nostalgia and modern creativity, captivating audiences with its playful yet meaningful approach. His mosaics not only celebrate beloved pop culture icons but also reflect a deeper philosophy of connection and joy. In this interview, he opens up about the inspirations behind his work, his philosophy and his creative process.
What inspired you to choose mosaics as your primary artistic medium, and how does it reflect your personal philosophy?
The video games of my childhood. Zelda, secret of mana, dragon quest, Mario… A few pixels were enough to transport my friends and me into extraordinary adventures. Through my creations, I relive some of those magical moments of my childhood and adolescence and pay tribute to all the people who have brought me joy. My art focuses on what’s positive, on what brings us together.
Your Mario Worldz series imagines endless possibilities for a classic character. What does this say about your view on identity and transformation?
Hummm… Good question (laughs). I think it’s important to evolve, to change, to test and discover new things. The only limits of human beings are those they impose on themselves.
How do you decide which elements of pop culture to incorporate into your work, and what message do you aim to convey through these crossovers?
It all depends on my current interests. For the 2025 collection, which is currently in preparation, I’m interested in the work of artists who have touched me and left their mark on the history of art. Works dating from the 16th century to the present day. The preparatory work was very interesting, allowing me to discover artists and rediscover others (Da Vinci, Magritte, Basquiat, etc.). I can’t wait to present all this to you in April 2025 in Paris at the Urban Art Fair.
Street art is often temporary and vulnerable to change. How does this impermanence influence the way you approach your creations?
The temporary aspect is part of the game, especially when you don’t ask permission to install a work. (laughs) I got used to it a long time ago, even though I always hope that my mosaics will stay in place as long as possible. I use very strong glues and install my works out of reach of passers-by at heights of several meters. This increases their life expectancy without guaranteeing anything. I’m also increasingly contextualizing my works so that they blend into their environment. With experience, I’ve also learned to better select my spots and recognize those that are doomed to failure. I’ve developed a sixth sense for this! (laughs)
Your art has traveled across many countries. Do you think the cultural context of a location affects how people interpret your work?
Yes and no. I don’t talk about religion or politics in my work, so the cultural dimension is less present. Mario is world-famous, and people often recognize the character he’s mixed up with. That’s often where the discussion starts, about the memories we share of this or that character. What it means to us.
Mosaic art involves piecing together small fragments to create a whole. Do you see this process as a metaphor for life or society?
Wow. I’ve never thought that far before (laughs). I’m more the kind of person who acts on a creative impulse. I do it because I need to do it, because it has to come out. In my minimalist art, each pixel, each mosaic tile is important and ensures an overall cohesion. A bit like a human society, where everyone has a role to play in ensuring balance.
What do you hope people feel or think when they encounter your art in unexpected places?
I hope to bring a smile to their faces, and a positive feeling to their hearts.
If you could design a mosaic to represent a universal human truth, what would it depict and why?
Isn’t that the definition of art? Creation itself represent a universal human truth. A call to which everyone responds in their own way.
In your opinion, where is the line between art and vandalism when it comes to street art?
It’s impossible to say. What appeals to one person may not appeal to another. My approach is to beautify the urban landscape, but again, that’s subjective.
How is your work perceived in Lyon? Do you feel the city is supportive of street artists and what are the challenges?
From what I’ve been told, my work is very much appreciated in Lyon. I’ve already installed around fifty works there and I’m not going to stop there. As far as the city of Lyon is concerned, it’s very tolerant of street art. The works are generally preserved and sometimes even cleaned up. I had the opportunity to meet the mayor of Lyon at a party at the end of 2024 in tribute to Antoine de St Exupéry. I presented him with a “Little Prince” mosaic that the city had bought from me. So yes, Lyon is an excellent city for street art lovers!
What is your personal motto?
Wild till the end!
For more information, please follow @inthewoup.
