2023

Steve McQueen (17)

Box-office legend

Unique work | n°17 in the collection

≈11.000 Lego in 13 different colors

 

Base: blue | QR code: black, blue, dark azure, red, white
Mentions: white | Vintage: dark bluish grey
Visual: black, blue, bright light blue, bright pink, dark azure, dark blue, dark bluish grey, dark pink, dark red, lavender, magenta, neon yellow, white

Height & Width: 46.5 cm – Thickness: 5 cm

Weight: 6.2 kg

Hidden signature on a QR code Lego

 

RATE: HEREWork presented by Galerie ArtRewards

Artistic Q-art code depicting mechanics repairing a 1971 Porsche du Mans. The work, by qargo, blends a modern QR code with a historic racing scene.

This LEGO work by qargo, featuring Steve McQueen, goes beyond the simple figuration of the actor to become a true celebration of speed, determination anddaring. The artist uses a palette of intense blues, symbolizing the calm and mastery that characterized McQueen, while echoing the depth of his gaze. Touches of bright red and white evoke the iconic racing suit worn by the driver in the film Le Mans (1971), echoing the themes of competition and speed. These carefully matched colors create a visual tension reminiscent of theadrenalin and energy of motor racing.

The QR code on the back of the work is much more than just a technical element. Conceived as a semi-abstract piece of art, it depicts mechanics busy around McQueen’s Porsche, recalling the atmosphere of the race and the mechanical universe into which the actor has immersed himself. This QR code not only works, but also adds a symbolic dimension to the work: the meeting oftraditional art and modern technology to honor McQueen’s heritage. A particularly striking detail is the signature of Masahiro Hara, inventor of the QR code, engraved on the work, underlining this alliance between technological innovation and artistic homage.

Steve McQueen embodies the values of courage, resilience and freedom, both in his roles and in his life choices. This work shows that his true strength lay not only in his physical presence, but also in his independence of spirit and ability to push back boundaries. This portrait is a celebration of thecompetitive spirit, unshakeable will and charisma that have made Steve McQueen a legendary figure, both in film and on the racetrack. An inspiring work, which pushes us to go beyond our own limits and face every challenge with determination and passion.

1971

EASTER EGG

Key : Le Mans

Secret: The film Le Mans, from which this visual is taken, was released in 1971. So it’s only natural that the Easter Egg should be hidden under the 1971th stud of the QR code, of which there are a total of 3364.

“Freedom is being yourself without permission.”

Steve McQueen, the ultimate incarnation of raw charisma and freedom, often fascinated the artist. Behind his intense gaze lay an indomitable spirit, a man who refused to conform to Hollywood or society’s expectations. He was an actor, a pilot and a rebel, living every moment with a rare intensity. What’s most striking about him is his categorical refusal to compromise. McQueen wasn’t just a movie star, he was a living example of personal freedom, a man who did what he loved, no matter what others thought.

Through her work, the artist has sought to capture this spirit, this blend of simplicity and complexity, this perpetual quest for truth and authenticity. Steve McQueen reminds us that true strength lies in self-acceptance, in following one’s own path, even when the whole world is against it. It is this essence that this work strives to immortalize.