Have you ever felt like a kid again, exploring a playground with your friends? Standing here, in front of the Titeuf Statue, I imagine the world through the eyes of that bright-eyed, mischievous character. You can almost hear his goofy voice asking, “Do you know why I’m here?”
Titeuf – the iconic comic strip character created by Geneva-based artist Zep – is no stranger to the world. His adventures have been translated into 25 languages, and his comics have sold over 25 million copies. But this statue, nestled in the courtyard of École Jacques-Dalphin in Carouge, is a celebration of his origins.
This bronze statue, a testament to the enduring popularity of Titeuf, was installed in 2019. Zep, inspired by the children playing in the courtyard of this very school, created Titeuf’s character. His atelier was just across the street, offering him a constant source of inspiration. You can see it in the details of the statue: Titeuf, with his signature blond tuft of hair, stands proudly on a pedestal, his little head tilted as if ready to recount some new adventure.
The city of Carouge, recognizing the cultural significance of Titeuf, embraced the project. While Geneva, the birthplace of Titeuf’s creator, initially refused to erect a statue of their very own, Carouge warmly accepted the honor.
This bronze monument, standing tall and proud in the schoolyard, holds a unique place in Geneva’s cultural landscape. It’s a reminder that even the most unlikely of heroes can become icons, and that the roots of creativity can be found in the most unexpected places.