Sold Out!
2023

Masahiro Hara (1)

Japanese engineer, father of the QR code

 

Unique work | n°1 in the collection

≈11.000 Lego in 6 different colors

 

Base: white | QR code: black & red
Mentions: red | Vintage: black
Visual: black, dark bluish grey, flat silver, light bluish grey, red, white

Height & Width: 46.5 cm – Thickness: 5 cm

Weight: 6.1 kg

Hidden signature on a QR code Lego

 

RATE not applicable (part not available)

This LEGO work by Masahiro Hara, the inventor of the QR code, created by qargo, goes beyond a simple representation of the brilliant engineer to become a true celebration of Japanese innovation, precision and culture. The dominant colors, red and white, evoke not only the flag of Japan, but also the tradition and modernity that blend in qargo’s art, just as they do in Hara’s work. Through a meticulous assemblage of bricks, the artist captures both Masahiro Hara’s iconic features and the very essence of his revolutionary creation, making this portrait an artistic reflection on human ingenuity and the lasting impact of technological innovations.

The QR code, at the heart of the work, is much more than a technical element. Inspired by the game of Go, whose abstract patterns of black and white are reflected in the geometric lines of the code, this symbol becomes a bridge between tradition and innovation. It embodies the strategic spirit of Go, where every move, every piece placed, can change the course of the game, just as the QR code has transformed the digital world. This QR code functions and acts as a metaphor for a future always connected to its history and cultural roots.

Masahiro Hara embodies the values of creativity, perseverance andingenuity. This work illustrates that innovation not only meets the needs of the present, but also shapes the future, blazing uncharted trails. This portrait is a celebration of revolutionary thinking, of the balance between tradition and modernity, and of the power of the human imagination. A work that, like Masahiro Hara, inspires us to build bridges between eras and constantly push back the frontiers of the possible.

37

EASTER EGG

Key: 1994 (year the QR code was created)

Secret: The QR code was created in 1994 by Masahiro Hara. Born in 1957, the Japanese engineer invented this extraordinary “tool” at the age of 37. The Easter Egg was inserted in the 37th position.

Perseverance is the driving force behind innovation. Every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and progress.

Originally from Japan, Masahiro Hara is the Japanese engineer who created the QR Code, a revolutionary invention that has transformed the way we communicate and store information.

The artist discovered this formidable technology in 2018 during a trip to Asia. The discovery of this invention led him to take an interest in the exceptional career of Masahiro Hara. His genius inspired the birth of qargo.

What makes this story even more incredible is the extraordinary chance the artist provoked to chat with Masahiro and even meet him in person. During these exchanges, he enthusiastically shared his unexpected reinterpretation of Masahiro’s invention. Masahiro’s positive and admiring reaction reinforced his belief that giving him the qargo was an obvious step to take.

Masahiro’s career is an example of perseverance, audacity and the pursuit of excellence. His vision of innovation encourages us to dream big and push back the boundaries.